Far from the cinematic image of the solitary investigator, the practice of detective work is based on rigorous methods and a variety of partnerships. In France, this profession is strictly regulated by law to ensure that it is practised with respect for individual rights and ethical rules.
Private detectives play a crucial role in solving cases, whether they involve fraud investigations, tracing individuals or verifying the loyalty of employees. Detectives are professionals authorised to carry out investigations on behalf of private individuals, companies, lawyers, public authorities, insurance companies and associations. However, to carry out these assignments, they may sometimes use subcontractors.
What is a subcontractor?
A subcontractor is a person or company hired by a professional to carry out a specific part of a job.
During an investigation, a private detective may need to call on subcontractors. For example, it is possible to call on specific computer experts or specialist investigators for special assignments requiring particular skills.
Their expertise enables detectives to broaden their skills and offer more comprehensive services to their clients.
Some major cases also require additional human resources. In these cases, it may be necessary to call in a colleague. In addition, some assignments involve different geographical locations that are more or less remote. Here again, working as part of a team can be essential to the success of the assignment.
The advantages of outsourcing
Subcontracting can offer a number of advantages:
- Access to specialist skills. Private detectives may not have all the skills needed for every investigation. By outsourcing certain tasks, they can benefit from the expertise of other professionals, which improves the quality of the services offered.
- Flexibility: Outsourcing allows detectives to adapt quickly to the changing needs of their clients. For example, if an investigation requires expertise in cybercrime, a detective can call in a computer specialist without having to train a new employee.
- Cost optimisation: Hiring subcontractors can be more cost-effective than hiring full-time employees, especially for one-off projects. This allows detectives to manage their costs while maintaining a high level of service. In this way, the customer is not affected by any increase in rates.
- Expanding your network: Working with subcontractors allows you to expand your professional network.
The challenges of outsourcing
One of the main challenges of subcontracting is to ensure that the work carried out by subcontractors meets the quality and ethical standards of the profession. Our partners are therefore chosen with care. The information collected during surveys must be obtained legally and with respect for individual freedoms. Any breach of these rules may result in legal sanctions.
Furthermore, private investigations often involve sensitive information. It is essential that subcontractors respect the confidentiality of the data and information processed. Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) are often required to protect this information.
Documents to be checked prior to collaboration
The private detective is responsible for the work carried out by the subcontractor. He must therefore check that the professional he is working with is operating strictly within the law and in accordance with the professional obligations in force. The reports provided must comply with the legislation. In fact, they can be presented in court as evidence, provided they have been obtained legally.
To do this, we check the conformity of a number of documents:
- check the extracts from the commercial register to clearly identify the third-party structure and see whether it is properly registered.
- check proof of legal status
- check the professional certifications: professional card and authorisation to practice the profession. All these documents are compulsory if you want to work legally. They are issued by the CNAPS (Conseil National des Activités Privées de Sécurité).
- check the validity of the professional’s insurance
- find out about the subcontractor’s professional references and explore any claims that may have been made
All these documents are regularly checked and analysed in detail so that our customers and colleagues can deal with us with complete confidence. The documents are also available to any customer on request. Transparency is an essential part of our business.
Conclusion
Collaboration between private investigators and subcontractors is a common practice that can enhance the services offered and improve the efficiency of investigations. However, it requires careful management to guarantee the quality and confidentiality of investigations. By establishing solid partnerships and choosing trusted subcontractors, private investigators can not only broaden their field of action, but also offer more comprehensive solutions tailored to their clients’ needs.
