A six-stage investigation process
1. Confidential intake
Explain the decision, concern, deadline and safety context. Share only information that is relevant to identify the subject and understand the objective.
2. Feasibility and privacy review
The proposed checks are reviewed for practical feasibility, privacy, proportionality and safety. Where another specialist is more appropriate, that is explained before work begins.
3. Written scope and estimate
The scope should identify questions, locations, expected field days, record checks, reporting format, exclusions and fee factors.
4. Research and fieldwork
Work is completed against the agreed questions. Notes include dates, sources, observations, contradictions and follow-up leads.
5. Verification and quality review
Important findings are cross-checked where possible. Unverified information is labelled rather than presented as fact.
6. Secure report and review
The report is delivered through the agreed channel. A review call explains findings, limitations and any sensible next step.
What makes a useful investigation brief
- The exact questions that affect your decision.
- Accurate names, photographs, phone numbers, addresses and dates.
- Which claims are confirmed, disputed or only suspected.
- A safe communication method and time.
What not to send
Do not send account passwords, banking PINs, copied private chats obtained without authority, intimate images, medical records unrelated to the scope or large quantities of personal data “just in case.” Data minimisation protects everyone and keeps the investigation focused.