When is it worth hiring a private investigator?

Whether it’s a suspicion of infidelity, uncertainties in a custody dispute, or strange goings-on in your company: In many cases, a professional investigation can help shed light on the situation and prevent damage – before it is too late.

Reimbursement of costs for the use of private investigators under Austrian law

It is also important to know that, under Austrian law, the costs of hiring a private investigator may, under certain conditions, be claimed as pre-litigation costs and recovered from the party responsible in accordance with the principle of whoever caused the costs has to pay them. The primary legal basis for this claim is section 1295 of the Austrian Civil Code (Allgemeines Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch, ABGB), in conjunction with the general principles of the laws on damages. Case law generally recognises that private investigator’s fees are recoverable, particularly in cases such as insurance and benefits fraud, breach of trust and abuse of confidence, breaches of employment obligations, and breaches of competition law.

For private citizens: When doubts become a burden, it is worth turning to a private investigator.

For private citizens, the decision to contact a private investigator is often an emotionally charged one. Anyone who suspects their partner of being unfaithful faces not only the prospect of disappointment, but also the question of how to gather evidence – without straying into a legal grey area themselves.

The same applies to a custody dispute, where it can be crucial to have the other parent’s behaviour objectively observed. And if you feel you are being stalked or threatened by someone, it is often reassuring to know that a professional is investigating the matter, gathering evidence and supporting you as you take legal action.

When is it worth a company hiring a private investigator?

Companies also frequently find themselves in situations where an objective outside perspective is worth its weight in gold. Perhaps an employee is attracting attention with some unusual behaviour – sick leave is becoming more frequent, whilst rumours are circulating about a side job. Or it could be a matter of suspicious expense claims, missing stock, or the suspicion that internal information is being leaked. In such cases, a private investigator can conduct investigations, carry out surveillance and compile evidence discreetly and in full compliance with the law – without disrupting business operations or causing colleagues to suspect one another.

Even when dealing with more complex issues such as white-collar crime, sabotage or insurance fraud, private investigators can help establish the facts, uncover patterns, identify offenders and secure evidence. The advantage: You, as the client, do not need to take any action yourself, avoiding the risk of both personal conflicts and legal problems. An investigator knows exactly what he can do and how to deliver results that can be used in court.

What can a private investigator do that you can’t do yourself?

Experience counts, especially in delicate situations. Private investigators know how to operate discreetly, how to speak to witnesses, how to gather information that is legally relevant – and how to document everything professionally. A brief conversation is often all it takes to determine whether it is worth engaging a private investigator. And if it is not, a reputable private investigator will tell you so.

When a suspicion becomes a burden, it’s worth putting a stop to the endless train of thoughts in your mind. A free initial consultation can help get an idea of what can be done. We offer discreet, honest advice with no obligation. If we can help, we will – and if we can’t, we will tell you.