When it comes to child custody cases in Texas, one of the most important factors the court considers is where the child truly resides. Judges want evidence that shows not only the parent’s claims of residence, but also clear, consistent proof of where the child is living day-to-day. This is where investigative documentation becomes critical.

Why Residency Checks Matter

Residency plays a direct role in custody decisions because Texas courts are required to act in the best interest of the child. If one parent claims the child lives with them full-time, while the other disputes it, courts need verifiable evidence. Surveillance and residence checks help establish:

• The child’s primary residence
• Which parent is providing daily care and stability
• Whether the child is actually living at the address claimed in legal filings

Without this documentation, judges often only have “he said, she said” testimony—which can weaken a client’s case.

How Many Checks Are Enough?

A single check is rarely enough to establish a clear pattern of residency. Courts want to see consistency over time. The recommended investigative standard is:

• 3 to 5 separate checks per week over a minimum of 2 to 3 weeks.
• Checks should be done on different days and times (early mornings, evenings, weekends) to capture real patterns.
• Investigators should document both departures and arrivals, such as whether the child leaves for school from the claimed address or returns there at night.

This method helps rule out isolated exceptions—like a child staying over for a single night or weekend—and instead builds a credible record of ongoing residence.


The Investigator’s Role

Professional investigators know that credibility comes from thorough, impartial documentation. This includes:

• Time-stamped photos or video of arrivals and departures
• Detailed field notes on vehicles, companions, and activity observed
• Cross-checks against school drop-offs, extracurricular activities, or daycare locations

The goal isn’t to “catch” one parent, but to provide the court with clear, unbiased evidence that supports or disproves residency claims.

Final Thoughts

In Texas child custody cases, establishing residency requires more than one quick drive-by. A strong case is built on repeated, well-documented checks that demonstrate where the child consistently lives. At Special Investigations Group, we design surveillance schedules that hold up in court and remove doubt from custody disputes.


If you’re involved in a custody matter and need residency verification, reach out to us at (512) 844-7933 or [email protected]. We can help you gather the evidence that makes the difference.

A New Standard in Private Investigator Training
AUSTIN, TX — Special Investigations Group (SIG), one of Texas’s leading private investigative firms, is proud to announce the official launch of Texas Investigator Institute (TII)—a comprehensive training academy designed to prepare the next generation of licensed private investigators in Texas. With a mission to provide real-world, legally compliant, and professionally driven education, TII is set to become a cornerstone for investigative excellence across the state.

A New Era for Investigator Education in Texas
The private investigations industry is evolving rapidly, driven by advances in technology, heightened legal standards, and growing demand for investigative services in civil, criminal, and corporate sectors. Recognizing the need for a formal training academy that blends practical experience with classroom instruction, Special Investigations Group created Texas Investigator Institute to bridge that gap.

“Too many new investigators enter the field unprepared for the realities of casework,” says the Director of Training at SIG. “We’ve taken everything we’ve learned from the field—surveillance, OSINT, infidelity, insurance fraud, interviews, and more—and built a training academy that prepares students for what really happens beyond the classroom.”

What Makes Texas Investigator Institute Different?
Unlike generic online courses or theory-heavy programs, Texas Investigator Institute is field-tested, Texas-specific, and career-focused. Developed by working professionals, the curriculum aligns with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Texas Occupations Code requirements while diving deeper into the specialized skills that clients and agencies expect today.
Highlights of the Institute Include:

• 18-Hour Introductory Private Investigator Course – Covering licensing, ethics, laws, and investigative fundamentals.
• Specialty Certifications – Including OSINT (Open Source Intelligence), Surveillance Techniques, Insurance Fraud, Infidelity & Domestic Cases, and Cybercrime Investigations.
• Live & On-Demand Modules – Flexible scheduling for busy professionals or career-changers.
• Hands-On Field Exercises – Learn from licensed instructors with years of boots-on-the-ground experience.
• Texas-Focused Legal Training – Understand the state’s unique rules on evidence, GPS use, recording laws, and more.
• Career Development Support – From mentorship to resume building and real case report writing.

Built by Investigators, For Investigators
The strength of TII comes from the deep investigative bench behind SIG. Special Investigations Group has conducted thousands of cases across Texas—from Austin to Dallas, Houston to El Paso—giving them the insight needed to train students with realism, ethics, and confidence. Now that experience is being passed on directly through the Texas Investigator Institute.
Whether you’re a military veteran, former law enforcement officer, recent graduate, or someone changing careers, TII equips you with the tools to investigate legally, professionally, and effectively.

Now Enrolling: Set Your Career in Motion
Enrollment for Texas Investigator Institute’s courses is now open. Aspiring PIs, agency employees, and continuing education candidates are encouraged to apply early, as class sizes are limited to ensure quality instruction and individual attention.
TII also supports investigative agencies looking to upskill their teams or onboard new hires. Bulk registration options and agency partnerships are available.

Visit www.TexasInvestigatorInstitute.com to learn more, browse available courses, or register today. New classes coming every week.

About Special Investigations Group
Special Investigations Group is a full-service licensed investigative agency based in Texas, providing services in surveillance, background checks, insurance fraud, family law, digital forensics, and corporate investigations. Known for their professionalism and discretion, SIG is trusted by law firms, businesses, and individuals across the state.

By Texas Investigator Institute

In the world of private investigation, what a person doesn’t say often speaks louder than what they do. Body language—the silent language of gestures, posture, facial expressions, and movement—offers invaluable insights that can help investigators read between the lines, detect deception, and build stronger cases. For Texas private investigators, mastering the art of nonverbal communication is more than a skill—it's a professional necessity.

Why Body Language Matters in Investigative Work
Every interview, surveillance operation, or client meeting involves some level of interpretation. While verbal statements may be rehearsed, calculated, or even false, body language often betrays the truth. As an investigator, recognizing subtle signs of discomfort, anxiety, or dishonesty can help confirm suspicions or uncover deeper truths.
Consider a subject who insists they have no connection to a location under investigation. Their words may deny involvement, but their eyes glance in the direction of that location on a map. Their body tenses. Their fingers tap nervously. Each of these signals tells a story—one that may contradict their spoken words. That’s where a trained eye comes in.

Reading the Unspoken: Common Body Language Cues
Here are just a few common nonverbal signals investigators should watch for:

• Microexpressions – Fleeting facial expressions that reveal a person’s true feelings before they can mask them.
• Crossed arms – A defensive posture that may indicate resistance or discomfort.
• Fidgeting or foot tapping – Signs of nervousness or stress, especially when questions hit sensitive topics.
• Eye contact (or lack of it) – Avoiding eye contact can be a sign of deception, but it can also signal shame, fear, or cultural norms. Context is key.
• Tone, pace, and pitch of voice – While not “body language” in the strictest sense, changes in vocal delivery are critical paralinguistic cues.

Body Language in Interviews and Interrogations
In investigative interviews, body language can be the difference between a breakthrough and a dead end. Skilled investigators use rapport-building techniques to make subjects feel comfortable—then observe changes in posture, expressions, and movement when critical questions are introduced. These nonverbal cues often help determine when to push, when to pause, or when to circle back.
Moreover, investigators can use body language to their advantage. Mirroring a subject’s body posture subtly builds trust. Leaning in at the right moment shows interest and attentiveness. These techniques help build rapport and elicit cooperation.

Cultural and Contextual Considerations
Texas is a culturally diverse state, and investigators must be careful not to overgeneralize or misinterpret body language through a biased lens. For instance, a lack of eye contact is a sign of deception in some cultures but a sign of respect in others. A trained investigator knows how to read the room—and the individual—before making assumptions.

Surveillance and Observational Benefits
Even when no words are spoken, body language is rich with information. During physical surveillance, a subject’s posture or stride can indicate intoxication, injury, or emotional state. Observing the way two people interact—whether they’re close, distant, affectionate, or tense—can help piece together relationships and motives.
For insurance fraud investigations, watching how a subject moves when they think no one is watching can help reveal inconsistencies with claimed injuries. A limp that vanishes when they jog across a parking lot? That’s a story body language tells all on its own.

Training Makes the Difference
At Texas Investigator Institute, a subsidiary of Special Investigations Group, we believe that understanding human behavior is a core competency for every investigator. That’s why our continuing education and certification programs include dedicated training in body language and behavioral analysis, along with many other subjects. We equip our students not only with tools and tactics, but with the awareness needed to observe, interpret, and act on the silent signals others miss.
​

Whether you're conducting interviews, monitoring subjects, or testifying in court, nonverbal communication skills can elevate your professionalism, credibility, and investigative results.

Ready to sharpen your instincts?
Join us for our 18-Hour “Understanding Body Language” Course designed specifically for Texas private investigators. Learn how to recognize deception, build trust, and interpret the unspoken with confidence.


Visit www.texasinvestigatorinstitute.com to enroll today.

When people think of private investigators, they often picture trench coats, sunglasses, and shadowy alleys. But real private investigation—especially here in Austin, TX—is far more complex and valuable than Hollywood portrays.

At Special Investigations Group (SIG), we’re licensed professionals who uncover facts, gather evidence, and provide objective documentation for a wide range of personal, legal, and corporate matters. Whether you're dealing with a sensitive family issue, preparing for a legal case, or running a business, a private investigator can offer clarity and peace of mind when the truth matters most.

Our investigators commonly conduct surveillance to document infidelity, child custody violations, insurance fraud, or employee misconduct. Using advanced equipment and proven methods, they observe and report activities discreetly—often capturing photo, video, and GPS data that can be used in court. For individuals, this might mean confirming a spouse's actions or documenting a co-parent’s behavior; for businesses, it could involve verifying injury claims or uncovering theft.

Beyond surveillance, our PIs can perform background checks, locate missing persons, and verify identities. We have access to police grade databases and public records that go beyond a simple internet search, providing insight into someone’s criminal history, assets, litigation records, or known associates. In legal settings, our PIs often assist attorneys with witness interviews, evidence gathering, process serving, and expert testimony.

Who Hires a Private Investigator in Austin?

Our clients come from all walks of life, including:

• Individuals dealing with infidelity, custody battles, or missing persons.
• Attorneys who need case support, evidence gathering, or witness interviews.
• Businesses conducting internal investigations or due diligence.
• Insurance companies investigating suspected fraud.

If you live in Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, Lakeway, or anywhere in Central Texas, SIG is your trusted partner in uncovering the truth.

Services Offered by Special Investigations Group

Surveillance Services
Whether it’s infidelity investigations, child custody documentation, or employee misconduct, we provide professional surveillance backed by HD video, time-stamped photos, and field reports. Our licensed PIs use state-of-the-art equipment to monitor, document, and present the facts—day or night.

​Background Checks & Identity Verification
Need to know who you’re really dealing with? Our background investigations cover criminal records, civil cases, property ownership, social media activity, and more. This is ideal for employers, landlords, attorneys, or anyone needing verified information.

GPS Tracking (Legal and Compliant)
Under Texas law, licensed private investigators like SIG may deploy GPS trackers under specific conditions. We help clients monitor patterns of movement, confirm whereabouts, and assist in strategic surveillance operations—always within legal boundaries.

Digital Forensics & Electronic Evidence
We recover deleted texts, emails, images, search history, location data, and more from phones, computers, and tablets. This is especially useful in divorce, harassment, or fraud cases, where digital footprints matter.

Legal Support & Expert Witness Testimony
SIG supports civil and criminal cases by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, serving subpoenas, and testifying in court. We’ve worked alongside attorneys in Austin, Travis County, and surrounding jurisdictions, providing rock-solid documentation and courtroom-ready reports.

Why Choose SIG as Your Private Investigator in Austin?
There are dozens of investigators in Texas—but here’s why clients continue to choose SIG:

• Fully Licensed & Insured
• Locally based in Austin, TX
• Experience with Texas Penal Code & legal procedures
  
• Discreet, professional investigations with courtroom-ready documentation
• Serving all of Central Texas – including Cedar Park, Leander, Georgetown, Liberty Hill, Round Rock, Lago Vista, Lakeway, Hutto, Taylor, and Jonestown

Get Real Answers. Hire a Trusted Austin Private Investigator Today. When you’re facing a sensitive situation that requires the truth, don’t leave it to guesswork or Google searches.

Contact Special Investigations Group today for a free, confidential consultation.

We’re not just investigators—we’re your strategic partner in truth.
Call us at (512) 844-7933
Visit www.siginvestigator.com

​When it comes to hiring a private investigator (PI) in Texas, ensuring that they are ethical, legally compliant, and trustworthy is critical. Whether you need help with a personal matter, a legal case, or corporate investigations, hiring an investigator who follows case law and adheres to legal standards can make all the difference. But how can you ensure that the investigator you hire is ethical, transparent, and professional? Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process.

Understand the Importance of Legal Compliance Before you begin searching for an investigator, it's important to recognize the legal landscape that governs private investigations. Texas, like many states, has strict rules and regulations governing the work of private investigators. These regulations help ensure that investigators do not violate privacy laws, engage in unlawful surveillance, or use illegal means to gather evidence.
Case Law and Legal Boundaries Investigators must adhere to relevant case law, which dictates the types of evidence that can be legally gathered and used in court. Whether it’s adhering to the Fourth Amendment (protection against unreasonable searches and seizures) or state-specific laws about wiretapping, surveillance, or trespassing, an ethical investigator knows the boundaries of what is permissible.
Hiring an investigator who understands case law can prevent you from facing legal challenges in your own case, especially if the evidence gathered is inadmissible or was obtained illegally.
2. Look for Licensed and Experienced Investigators One of the first steps in finding an ethical investigator in Texas is to ensure that the investigator is licensed. In Texas, private investigators are required to hold a valid license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). This ensures that the investigator has undergone the necessary background checks, education, and training required to perform investigations legally and competently.
You can verify the investigator’s credentials by:

• Asking for their license number.
• Checking the Texas DPS website to confirm the license’s validity.
• Inquiring about their years of experience in the field, especially if they specialize in the area relevant to your case (e.g., family law, corporate investigations, criminal defense, etc.).

A licensed investigator should also be familiar with the latest developments in both case law and investigative techniques. This ensures they can provide services that are both effective and ethical.
3. Ensure They Use Legal Means to Gather Evidence Ethical investigators should only use methods that comply with both state and federal law to collect evidence. Some illegal practices that unethical investigators may use include:

• Unauthorized wiretapping.
• Trespassing on private property.
• Infiltrating private spaces without consent.
• Use of deceptive practices that violate an individual’s right to privacy.

An ethical investigator will rely on tried-and-true methods such as:

• Public records searches (e.g., court records, property records).
• Surveillance in public places.
• Interviews with witnesses.
• Analysis of publicly available digital information.
• Open-source intelligence (OSINT).

When interviewing potential investigators, ask about the specific techniques they will use and ensure they understand the limits of what is legally permissible. A responsible investigator will be transparent about their methods and will refuse to engage in any tactics that might jeopardize the legality of the case.
4. Look for a Contract Before Services Begin One of the best ways to ensure an ethical and professional relationship with your investigator is to insist on a formal contract. A reputable investigator should provide you with a written agreement outlining the terms and conditions of their services before starting any investigative work.
The contract should include:

• Scope of Services: A clear description of what the investigator will and will not do.
• Cost Structure: A breakdown of fees, including hourly rates, retainer requirements, and any additional costs (e.g., travel, equipment).
• Timeline: A realistic timeline for completing the investigation and any associated reporting.
• Confidentiality Clause: A commitment to keeping your information private and not disclosing it without your consent.
• Termination Clause: Terms under which either party can terminate the contract if the relationship is not working out.

Having a contract in place ensures that both parties understand their obligations and helps protect you from unexpected costs or disputes. It also gives you legal recourse if the investigator fails to follow through on their commitments.
5. Check References and Reviews Before hiring an investigator, take the time to check their references and reviews. A trustworthy investigator will have no problem providing testimonials from previous clients or offering referrals. You can also search online for reviews, ratings, and professional memberships (e.g., Texas Association of Licensed Investigators or the National Association of Legal Investigators).
Look for patterns in the feedback—are clients satisfied with the investigator's professionalism? Did they feel their privacy was respected? Were the results helpful in their case? These insights can help you gauge whether the investigator is a good fit for your needs.
6. Ask About Their Knowledge of Case Law When interviewing potential investigators, it’s important to ask them about their knowledge of current case law and their approach to handling sensitive evidence. A professional investigator should:

• Be familiar with relevant legal precedents and how they affect investigations.
• Understand the importance of admissible evidence in court.
• Be cautious about collecting evidence that may be subject to challenge or exclusion in court.

An investigator who can talk confidently about case law and the legal limitations of investigative work is more likely to follow best practices in gathering evidence.
7. Trust Your Instincts Finally, trust your instincts when hiring an investigator. You want someone who is not only legally compliant but also someone you feel comfortable working with. Clear communication, transparency, and respect for your privacy are all signs of a professional investigator.
Finding an ethical investigator in Texas involves ensuring that they are properly licensed, follow the law, use legal means to gather evidence, and provide a clear, written contract. By doing your due diligence and selecting a qualified professional, you can ensure that the investigation will be carried out with integrity and respect for legal boundaries.
Remember, the investigator you hire can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case, so it's worth investing the time to choose one who is ethical, reliable, and legally sound.

Infidelity can be one of the most emotionally painful experiences a person faces in a relationship. Suspicion alone can cause sleepless nights, growing anxiety, and a breakdown in trust—even if no hard evidence exists. If you suspect your partner may be cheating, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with knowing what to look for and when to act. At Special Investigations Group, we help clients in Austin, TX and beyond uncover the truth with discretion, professionalism, and compassion.

Here’s what you need to know about the signs of infidelity—and when it may be time to bring in a licensed private investigator.


Common Signs of Infidelity

While no single behavior confirms cheating, consistent patterns can be strong indicators. Here are some of the most reported signs:

1. Sudden Secrecy or Changed Communication If your partner becomes overly protective of their phone, deletes messages regularly, or changes passwords without explanation, it could be a red flag. Avoiding eye contact, vague responses, or defensiveness when asked simple questions are also common signs.
2. Unexplained Absences Frequent late nights at work, weekend “trips with friends,” or last-minute schedule changes that don’t quite add up can signal something’s wrong—especially if explanations are inconsistent or vague.
3. Changes in Appearance or Habits A noticeable change in grooming, wardrobe, or fitness routine may seem harmless, but if it coincides with emotional distance or secrecy, it could be part of an effort to impress someone new.
4. Loss of Intimacy A sudden decline in affection, interest in shared activities, or emotional engagement may indicate that your partner’s attention is focused elsewhere.
5. Financial Red Flags Unexplained credit card charges, hidden purchases, or secret bank accounts may point to infidelity—or at least financial deception.


When to Call a Private Investigator If you're seeing several of these signs and your gut is telling you something isn’t right, it might be time to speak with a licensed private investigator in Austin, TX. Here’s when bringing in a professional can help:

• You need discreet, factual evidence to confirm your suspicions before taking legal or personal action.
  
• You’re worried about your emotional well-being and need clarity to make informed decisions.
• You want to avoid illegal or confrontational behavior like tracking, hacking, or following your partner yourself.
• Documentation for divorce, custody, or legal proceedings in which infidelity is a factor can help your case in court.
  
  

At Special Investigations Group, our investigators use proven surveillance techniques, background checks, and legal tools to deliver clear, unbiased answers. We operate with complete confidentiality and always within the scope of Texas law.

The Truth Sets You Free Discovering infidelity is never easy—but living in uncertainty can be even harder. A professional private investigator can give you peace of mind, clarity, and the power to move forward—whatever that means for you. If you're in Austin, TX or Central Texas and need answers, Special Investigations Group is here to help with integrity and discretion.

When children go online, they have direct and immediate access to friends, family, and complete strangers, which can put unsuspecting children at great risk. Children who meet and communicate with strangers online are easy prey for Internet predators. Predators have easy and anonymous access online where they can conceal their identity and roam without limit. Most of us have an image of sexual predators lurking around school playgrounds or hiding behind bushes scoping out their potential victims, but the reality is that today’s sexual predators search for victims while hiding behind a computer screen, taking advantage of the anonymity the Internet offers. They can be anywhere from social media to playing online video games. 

Research indicates that about 1 in 4 girls, and 1 in 13 boys experience child sexual abuse at some point in childhood.  91% of child sexual abuse is perpetrated by someone the child or child’s family knows.  (Center for Disease Control, accessed 2-18-21)

In 1998 when the internet was still somewhat new, there were over 3000 reports of child sexual abuse imagery. By 2018, tech companies reported over 45 million online photos and videos of children being sexually abused — more than double what they found in 2017. In 2023, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received 36.2 million reports of suspected child sexual exploitation online. Reports of online enticement increased by over 300% between 2021 and 2023. According to Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention 460,000 children go missing every year. 

Keeping teens and children safe online involves a mix of proactive strategies and open communication:

1. Set Clear Rules: Establish guidelines for internet use, including what sites they can visit and how much time they can spend online.
2. Monitor Activity: Use parental controls and regularly review their online interactions to ensure they’re engaging with appropriate content.
3. Educate About Privacy: Teach them to keep personal information private and be cautious about sharing details that could be used maliciously.
4. Discuss Online Risks: Talk openly about online threats such as cyberbullying, scams, and inappropriate content. Encourage them to come to you with any concerns.
5. Promote Safe Behavior: Advise them to use strong, unique passwords and to be wary of strangers online. Remind them that anything shared online can be permanent.
6. Foster Open Communication: Create a supportive environment where they feel comfortable discussing their online experiences and issues.

Balancing oversight with trust helps teens navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. 

​1. Shop on Trusted Websites

• Stick to well-known retailers with established reputations.
• Verify the URL before making purchases; avoid websites with slight misspellings or extra characters in the domain name (e.g., "Amazonn.com").
• Look for "https://" in the URL and a padlock icon, indicating secure encryption.

2. Be Wary of Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals

• If a deal looks unrealistically low, it probably is. Scammers use heavily discounted prices to lure victims into entering payment details.
• Cross-check prices on multiple sites to gauge realistic ranges.

3. Avoid Public Wi-Fi

• Public networks can be exploited by hackers to intercept your data.
• If you must shop on the go, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for added security.

4. Use Secure Payment Methods

• Prefer credit cards or secure payment platforms like PayPal, which offer fraud protection.
• Avoid direct bank transfers or payments through unfamiliar apps.

5. Monitor Your Bank Statements

• Check your accounts regularly for unauthorized charges.
• Many banks allow real-time transaction alerts to catch suspicious activity early.

6. Research Unknown Sellers

• If shopping from a lesser-known site, search for reviews and customer feedback.
• Use tools like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or Trustpilot to verify legitimacy.

7. Watch Out for Phishing Scams

• Avoid clicking on unsolicited emails, texts, or ads promising holiday discounts especially in places that push online sales on social media.
• Verify deals directly on the retailer's official website.

8. Check Return Policies

• Scammers often avoid providing clear return or refund policies.
• Confirm that the retailer offers reasonable return options before buying.

9. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

• Secure your shopping accounts by activating MFA, which requires a second verification step like a code sent to your phone.

10. Stay Vigilant on Social Media

• Be cautious with links or ads on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Fraudulent sellers often promote fake stores here and use alternative payment methods.
• Check the seller's profile for inconsistencies or a lack of interaction.

By staying alert and following these tips, you can enjoy a scam-free holiday shopping experience!

Avoiding Costly Mistakes When Hiring an Investigator Near You
As a professional Austin TX private investigator, I get calls every week from people asking,

​“Why should I go with you when your rates are higher than Company X?”
Or even,

“I found a private investigator who will work for $500 for the entire week!”

It’s a fair question—but the truth is, if someone is charging rock-bottom rates like that, there’s a good chance they are not licensed, insured, or legally operating in the state of Texas. And that could lead to serious consequences for your case and your future.

Is a License Really Required for a Private Investigator in Austin, TX?
Yes, absolutely. In Texas, all investigations must be conducted under a licensed investigations company. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) makes this crystal clear in Chapter 1702.101 of the Occupations Code, which states:
Unless the person holds a license as an investigations company, a person may not:

1. Act as an investigations company
2. Offer to perform the services of an investigations company
3. Engage in business activity for which a license is required

If you're hiring someone who doesn't meet these criteria, they're breaking the law—and you could be putting your case at risk by working with them.

What About Insurance?
In addition to being licensed, all Austin TX private investigators are required by Texas Administrative Code Rule 35.27 to carry liability insurance. This protects you, the client, in case anything goes wrong during the investigation.
An uninsured or unlicensed investigator not only puts your case in jeopardy—they expose you to legal liability and financial risk.

Why It Matters: Real People, Real Stakes
Most people don’t hire an Austin detective unless something serious is happening in their lives. You may be:

• Facing criminal charges
• Fighting for custody of your children
• Dealing with infidelity in your relationship
• Investigating fraud or harassment

I understand that calling a stranger for help with something this personal can feel overwhelming. That’s why at Special Investigations Group, we guarantee 100% confidentiality, professionalism, and legal compliance in every case.
Hiring an unlicensed investigator near you may seem like a way to save money, but in reality, you may be throwing it away. Anything they uncover is not admissible in court, and if they’re caught, it could hurt your case—not help it.

Watch Out for This Common Scam
There’s another issue I’ve seen too often in the Austin private investigation world: an investigator who shows up as “licensed” on the state website, but asks you to pay them directly, in their own name vs paying their company.
This is illegal. Even if they’re personally licensed, they cannot operate independently unless they also own a licensed investigations company. By working outside of their registered agency, they are:

• Operating without insurance
• Violating state law
• Taking money outside company records
• Leaving you with no legal protections

In short, they’re not just breaking rules—they’re stealing from the company they work for and potentially putting your case and your personal information at risk.

The SIG Difference: Trust, Transparency, and Experience
At Special Investigations Group, we are fully licensed, bonded, and insured as a top-rated Austin private investigator firm. We don’t just meet the minimum standards—we exceed them.
As a licensed investigations company, we:

✅ Supervise every investigator under our license
✅ Maintain full insurance and compliance with Texas law
✅ Provide detailed contracts and clear communication
✅ Stand by your side during and after the investigation
✅ Deliver results that hold up in court

We’re proud of our track record helping people just like you—whether it’s uncovering the truth in a major criminal case, protecting your children, or defending your freedom.

How to Verify a PI License in Texas
If you’re unsure whether a PI or agency is licensed in Texas, don’t guess—verify. Use the official state search tool:
Verify a License: https://tops.portal.texas.gov/psp-self-service/search/index​
Just enter the investigator’s name or company name and check their status.

Final Thoughts: You Get What You Pay For
When searching for an investigator near me, remember this:
Low rates often mean low standards—or illegal activity.
A $500/week “deal” may seem attractive, but it could end up costing you far more than money. Whether you’re hiring an Austin detective for civil, criminal, or domestic issues, make sure you’re hiring someone licensed, insured, and reputable.

Need a Trusted, Licensed Austin Private Investigator?
We’re here to help. Contact Special Investigations Group today for a free confidential consultation and learn how we can get you the results you need—ethically, legally, and professionally.

Call now or request an appointment online (512) 844-7933 or https://www.siginvestigator.com/contact-us.html

Serving Austin TX and surrounding areas

When you search “investigator near me,” make sure you're choosing one who’s certified and licensed to protect your rights.

There are several ways a private investigator can help you in court. The first major thing to note is that private investigators are considered expert witnesses. If you hire the right investigative firm, you will have a very powerful tool when it comes to reports and testifying on your behalf.

In  civil case, such as child custody or infidelity, we start by discussing your concerns and gather as much information as possible. We then write up a contract that both SIG and you (the client) would sign which covers both parties legally if something should go wrong. I can't stress enough no matter what investigative firm you choose make sure you get a contract. Once that is completed, we design an operational plan which will help us decide the best locations begin conducting the investigation. Many times we scout the location first so that we have a good idea of the surroundings. Some of the things we look for are: is it in a residential neighborhood or in a rural area, are there a lot of neighbors at home during the planned surveillance times, and what are the entry and egress points? After all of that and more we conduct surveillance on the subject and if any inappropriate behavior, or abuse/neglect is going on we document it using video and photographic evidence, along with our written first-hand account in report form. If we witness a crime being committed we report it immediately to the authorities. This includes reporting to Child Protective Services (CPS) as well as police. 

In child custody cases, we can help recognize set routines, testify on whether the children appear to be safe and healthy, that the children are attending the schools and doctors appointments as ordered, and verify that people that should not be around the children are not around. We can also testify to appropriate supervision of children. We are able to also establish the habits of the parents, including verifying that they are following specific court orders, such as no alcohol within 12 hours of custody of the child. Although these things may take time, the time needed will be well-established before and during the investigation to verify that your investment is worthwhile and that the investigation will help in your case. 

In a criminal case, we start the same way as in the civil investigation, by signing a contract and establishing an operational plan. In addition, we request discovery from the client's attorney and work with them closely to try and prove guilt or innocence through factual evidence and interviews, as well as surveillance as needed. At SIG, we are very well-versed in Texas and federal law which is necessary and helpful while conducting your investigation. Once we have received discovery from the attorney, we begin researching from the very beginning, before the charge was even made and work it all the way through as if it were a whole new investigation. We examine the evidence, review policy and procedure to verify that nothing was broken, establish if any violations of our client's civil rights may have occurred, review to be sure that the chain of evidence was followed appropriately, and to determine if there are any discrepancies. We also review to verify if there is more evidence, or witnesses that the police didn't find or talk to. We question whether the evidence shows another possible story besides the one that the police built their case on. Sometimes, the evidence is overwhelming that the client did in fact commit the crime, but we may find something that can help get a lesser plea deal, in many cases we have investigated for our clients they end up being cleared of all charges and go free.  As a client you know whether or not you committed the crimes you're being accused of, but if you're truthful with us from the start we will do our due diligence to help you get the best outcome possible.