Category: Investigative services

  • Criminal Defense Investigators in North Carolina’s Judicial System

    Criminal defense investigator in courtroom

    Introduction

    In the intricate web of North Carolina’s judicial system, criminal defense investigators play a pivotal role, especially in cases involving indigent defendants. Their dedication often goes unnoticed, as they tirelessly work, often at significantly reduced rates, to ensure a fair trial for all.

    The Vital Role of Criminal Defense Investigators

    Criminal defense investigators are more than just fact-finders. They are advocates for truth and justice, delving deep into cases to unearth crucial evidence. These professionals work closely with the North Carolina Office of the Capital Defender and the Office of Indigent Defense Services, offering their expertise in cases where defendants might not have the means for robust legal representation.

    The Sacrifice of Criminal Defense Detectives

    Working on these cases, criminal defense investigators often face financial sacrifices. They accept drastically reduced rates, driven not by monetary gain but by a commitment to justice and equality. Their role becomes crucial in balancing the scales of justice, ensuring that even the most underrepresented individuals receive a fair chance in court.

    Building a Strong Defense

    In collaboration with defense attorneys, criminal defense investigators meticulously review evidence, interview witnesses, and gather new information. Their investigative work is instrumental in constructing a strong defense, often bringing to light details that might have otherwise been overlooked. This rigorous process is vital in cases handled by the Office of the Capital Defender, where the stakes are exceptionally high.

    The Impact Beyond the Courtroom

    The contributions of criminal defense investigators extend beyond the courtroom. They often become a voice for those who might otherwise remain unheard in the legal system. By ensuring thorough and fair investigations, they uphold the integrity of North Carolina’s judicial process.

    Conclusion

    Criminal defense investigators in North Carolina embody the spirit of advocacy and justice. Their willingness to work for reduced rates in support of indigent defendants is a testament to their dedication to equitable representation. As they continue to serve alongside the Office of the Capital Defender and the Office of Indigent Defense Services, their role remains indispensable in championing the rights of the underrepresented.


  • GPS Tracking by Private Investigators in North Carolina

    Private investigator placing a GPS tracking device beneath a car

    Introduction to GPS tracking by private detectives

    GPS tracking by private investigators has become an integral tool in modern investigative techniques. Specifically, in North Carolina, the law provides a unique framework that governs this practice. Consequently, understanding this framework is crucial for private investigators operating within the state.

    North Carolina law explicitly outlines conditions under which private investigators can legally use tracking devices. Firstly, the investigator must hold a valid license under Chapter 74C of the General Statutes. Secondly, the GPS tracking must align with the authority provided under G.S. 74C-3(a)(8) and comply with all relevant laws. Lastly, the subject of the GPS tracking must not be under the protection of a domestic violence protective order or any similar court order.

    Licensing and Authority

    For GPS tracking to be legal for private investigators, obtaining a proper license is paramount. This license not only validates the investigator’s professional qualifications but also ensures adherence to ethical standards. Moreover, it serves as a testament to their commitment to lawful investigative practices.

    Additionally, the GPS tracking activity must not contravene any existing laws. This stipulation ensures that the use of GPS tracking aligns with the broader legal context. It also safeguards the privacy and rights of individuals, a critical aspect in any investigation.

    Protections Against Misuse of GPS tracking by private investigators

    Importantly, North Carolina law prohibits GPS tracking by private investigators in cases where the target is under specific protective orders. This restriction plays a vital role in ensuring that the technology does not become a tool for exacerbating situations of domestic violence or harassment.

    While the law provides a clear framework, private investigators must also weigh the ethical implications of using GPS tracking. Each decision to deploy this technology requires a careful consideration of its necessity, impact, and alignment with the overarching goal of the investigation.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the use of tracking devices by private detectives in North Carolina is a potent tool, governed by specific legal and ethical guidelines. Understanding and respecting these guidelines is crucial for private investigators who aim to conduct their investigations responsibly and legally within the state. This approach not only upholds the law but also reinforces the integrity of the investigative profession.

  • When can a private investigator help you?

    There are many situations in which hiring a private investigator can be a good choice. Some examples include:

    1. If you suspect that your spouse is cheating on you, a private investigator can help you gather evidence and proof, so that you can make an informed decision about your relationship.
    2. If you are involved in a child custody case, a private investigator can help you gather information and evidence about the other parent, so that you can make a strong case in court.
    3. If you are involved in a criminal case, a private investigator can help you gather evidence and witnesses, and can provide expert testimony in court.
    4. If you are involved in a civil lawsuit, a private investigator can help you gather evidence and information about the other party, so that you can make a strong case in court.
    5. If you are trying to locate a missing person, a private investigator can use their skills and resources to help you find them.

    Overall, a private investigator can be a valuable resource in many different situations, and can help you gather the information and evidence you need to make informed decisions and succeed in court.

  • Why family law attorneys should hire a private investigator for every case

    As a family law attorney, you know how important it is to have strong evidence and information in order to win your cases. And one of the best ways to gather that evidence and information is by hiring a private investigator.

    Here are five reasons why you should hire a private investigator for every case:

    1. A private investigator can provide valuable information and evidence that can help you make a strong case in court. They can conduct surveillance, gather witness statements, and provide expert testimony on various aspects of your case.
    2. A private investigator can help you locate missing witnesses and evidence, which can be critical in child custody and divorce cases. They can use their skills and resources to track down witnesses and evidence that may be difficult to find on your own.
    3. A private investigator can provide objective and unbiased information and evidence, which can be crucial in family law cases. They are not involved in the case, and they are not biased towards either party, so their information and evidence can be trusted and relied upon.
    4. A private investigator can save you time and money, by conducting investigations and gathering evidence on your behalf. This can allow you to focus on other aspects of your case, and can help you avoid the cost and hassle of conducting investigations yourself.
    5. A private investigator can provide valuable insights and expertise, based on their experience and training. They can provide you with valuable advice and guidance, and can help you develop strategies and tactics to win your case.

    Overall, hiring a private investigator for every case can be a valuable investment for family law attorneys. They can provide valuable information and evidence, and can help you win your cases and achieve the best possible outcomes for your clients.

  • Dangers family law attorneys may face when they fail to hire a private investigator

    As a family law attorney, you know how important it is to have strong evidence and information in order to win your cases. And if you don’t hire a private investigator, you may be putting yourself and your clients at a disadvantage.

    Here are five dangers of not hiring a private investigator:

    1. Without a private investigator, you may be unable to gather critical information and evidence that could be crucial to your case. A private investigator has the skills, resources, and expertise to gather information and evidence that may be difficult or impossible for you to obtain on your own.
    2. Without a private investigator, you may be unable to locate missing witnesses and evidence, which can be a major problem in child custody and divorce cases. A private investigator can use their skills and resources to track down witnesses and evidence that may be difficult to find on your own.
    3. Without a private investigator, you may be unable to provide objective and unbiased information and evidence, which can be crucial in family law cases. A private investigator is not involved in the case, and they are not biased towards either party, so their information and evidence can be trusted and relied upon.
    4. Without a private investigator, you may be forced to spend your own time and money conducting investigations and gathering evidence, which can be a major inconvenience and expense. A private investigator can do this work on your behalf, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your case.
    5. Without a private investigator, you may be missing out on valuable insights and expertise, based on their experience and training. A private investigator can provide you with valuable advice and guidance, and can help you develop strategies and tactics to win your case.

    Overall, hiring a private investigator can be a valuable investment for family law attorneys. They can provide valuable information and evidence, and can help you avoid pitfalls.

  • Success story: a grandmother wins custody

    At Aubor Group, we are proud to have helped countless clients win custody of their children in court. And one of our most rewarding cases was when we helped a grandmother win custody of her young granddaughter.

    The grandmother came to us with a heart-wrenching story. Her daughter, the child’s mother, had allowed the child to be in the presence of a convicted sex offender and child molester, despite a court order preventing him from being around the child. The grandmother was horrified and terrified for her granddaughter’s safety, and she desperately wanted to protect her.

    We immediately went to work, conducting a thorough investigation and gathering evidence to support the grandmother’s case. We conducted surveillance, gathered witness statements, and even tracked down the convicted sex offender to get his side of the story. We also worked closely with the grandmother, providing her with expert advice and guidance on how to present her case in court.

    With our help, the grandmother was able to make a strong and compelling case in court, and she was able to win custody of her granddaughter. The child was removed from her mother’s care, and she was placed in the loving and protective custody of her grandmother.

    We were thrilled to have played a role in this successful outcome, and we were grateful for the opportunity to help protect this vulnerable child. It was a reminder of why we do what we do, and it was a testament to the value of our services.

    At Aubor Group, we are committed to helping our clients succeed in court, and we will do whatever it takes to help them protect their children and their families.

  • Sucess story: protecting a small child

    father and mother and child in courtroom for custody dispute

    One of our clients, a mother of a one-year-old child, hired us to investigate the child’s father for neglect. She had noticed several concerning behaviors and wanted to be sure her child was being properly cared for.

    Through our investigation, we were able to obtain video and photo evidence of the father’s neglectful behavior. This included instances of reckless driving, purchasing controlled substances, walking the child on a busy main thoroughfare through city traffic, and even assaulting his new girlfriend.

    Based on this evidence, a judge granted an emergency temporary custody order, requiring the father to be supervised by the paternal grandmother during his time with the child and to pick up and drop off the child at the Department of Social Services.

    Over the next year and a half, our private investigators continued to gather evidence of the father’s neglectful behavior. He consistently violated the temporary order and put the child in dangerous situations.

    With Aubor Group’s help, the mother was able to protect her child and ultimately won permanent custody in court. This is just one example of the critical role that private investigators can play in child custody cases.

  • Differences between private investigators and law enforcement investigators

    Private investigators and law enforcement investigators are often confused for one another, but they are actually quite different in terms of their roles and responsibilities.

    Private investigators, also known as private detectives, are individuals who are hired by individuals or organizations to conduct investigations on their behalf. These investigations can be related to a variety of issues, including infidelity, insurance fraud, missing persons, criminal defense, etc. Private investigators are not affiliated with any government agency and do not have the same powers or authority as law enforcement investigators.

    On the other hand, law enforcement investigators are members of government agencies such as the police, FBI, or DEA. These investigators are responsible for conducting investigations into criminal activity and bringing the perpetrators to justice. Unlike private investigators, law enforcement investigators have the power to make arrests, openly carry firearms, and search / seize property.

    Another difference is the scope of their investigations. Private investigators are typically hired to conduct investigations into specific issues or cases, and they are not responsible for investigating all crime in an area. In contrast, law enforcement investigators are responsible for investigating all crimes within their jurisdiction, and they often work on multiple cases at the same time.

    Overall, while private investigators and law enforcement investigators may both conduct investigations, they have different roles, responsibilities, and levels of authority. Private investigators are hired by individuals or organizations to conduct investigations on their behalf, while law enforcement investigators are members of government agencies with the power to make arrests and investigate all crimes within their jurisdiction.

  • Hiring a private investigator when law enforcement investigators are unable to help you

    law enforcement officer turning away someone asking for help

    When you suspect that a crime has been committed against you or someone you care about, it can be frustrating and overwhelming to feel like you have nowhere to turn. In many cases, law enforcement agencies are unable to devote the time and resources necessary to thoroughly investigate the situation. In these cases, hiring a private investigator may be the best option.

    Private investigators are trained professionals who specialize in conducting investigations on behalf of individuals or organizations. They are skilled at gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and conducting surveillance in order to uncover the truth and help bring those responsible for a crime to justice.

    One of the biggest advantages of hiring a private investigator is their ability to devote more time and attention to your case. Unlike law enforcement agencies, which are often stretched thin and have to prioritize their cases, a private investigator can focus exclusively on your case and work tirelessly to gather the evidence you need.

    Another advantage of working with a private investigator is their expertise and access to specialized resources. Private investigators have a wide range of tools and techniques at their disposal, from surveillance equipment and forensic software to databases and networks of contacts. They are able to use these resources to uncover information and evidence that may not be readily available to law enforcement.

    Of course, hiring a private investigator is not without its challenges. One of the biggest is the cost. Private investigators typically charge by the hour, and a thorough investigation can be expensive. However, many people find that the peace of mind and satisfaction of knowing the truth is worth the cost.

    Another potential challenge is the legal and ethical considerations of hiring a private investigator. Private investigators are bound by the same laws and regulations as law enforcement agencies, but there can be gray areas when it comes to things like surveillance and gathering evidence. It is important to work with a reputable and experienced private investigator who can navigate these complexities and ensure that your rights are protected.

    In conclusion, hiring a private investigator can be an effective way to investigate a crime when law enforcement is unable to help. Private investigators are skilled professionals who are able to devote more time and resources to your case, and have access to specialized tools and techniques. While hiring a private investigator can be expensive, the benefits of uncovering the truth and bringing those responsible for a crime to justice can be well worth the cost.

  • Why you should hire a local private investigator

    When it comes to hiring a private investigator, many people are tempted to go with a large national company. These companies often have impressive websites and a lot of resources, and they can seem like the best choice. However, it is important to understand that there are some significant drawbacks to working with these companies, and that hiring a local private investigator can be a much better option.

    One of the biggest advantages of hiring a local private investigator is their knowledge and expertise. Local investigators are familiar with the area where you live and the community where your case is taking place. They know the local laws, customs, and culture, and they are able to use this knowledge to gather evidence and information more effectively.

    Another advantage of hiring a local private investigator is their accessibility and personal touch. Local investigators are often more available to meet with you in person, and they are more likely to take the time to get to know you and understand your situation. This can make a big difference in the quality of the investigation, and can help you feel more comfortable and confident in the process.

    One of the biggest drawbacks of working with a large national company is the lack of personal attention and accountability. These companies often have a high volume of cases and a large team of investigators, which means that you may not have a single point of contact or someone who is responsible for your case. This can lead to delays and misunderstandings, and can make it difficult to get the information and support you need.

    Another major disadvantage of working with a large national company is the cost. These companies often charge higher fees and take a larger percentage of the investigation costs. This can add up quickly, and you may end up paying more than you would if you hired a local investigator.

    In conclusion, when it comes to hiring a private investigator, it is important to consider the advantages of working with a local investigator. Local investigators are more knowledgeable, accessible, and personal, and they are often more affordable than large national companies. By choosing a local investigator, you can get the personalized attention and expertise you need to get the best possible results from your investigation.