CRIMINAL CASE INVESTIGATION: WHAT TO EXPECT

A Guide for Private Clients & Families

You do not have to be a law firm to contact Investigative Services Unlimited Group. Defendants, relatives and other authorized private clients may discuss a criminal matter directly with us. Our first task is to understand what happened, what remains uncertain and what factual work could help.

Serious allegations and unanswered questions can affect an entire family. A defined investigation gives the assignment direction: which records to review, which people may have information and what findings the client needs to receive. When an attorney is involved, we discuss coordination with the legal team.

When an Independent Investigation May Help

A pending criminal charge: you or a family member believe that a witness, timeline, recording or scene detail needs closer examination. We discuss the available material and the factual questions counsel needs addressed.

A homicide or unresolved death: the family has questions about the record, the sequence of events or an unexplored lead. We assess the information available for an authorized independent review.

Concerns about earlier investigative work: you want to understand what was documented, which leads were followed and which questions remain. The assignment can focus on the factual record and gaps requiring follow-up.

A conviction or older case: additional witness or records work may be useful to an attorney reviewing the matter. Legal deadlines and available remedies must be evaluated by counsel.

1. Begin with a Confidential Discussion

Tell us the location, case number if available, type of matter, stage of the case and any approaching dates. Explain the specific questions you need answered. We also ask who is requesting the work, whether counsel is involved and which records are already available.

The initial discussion helps identify whether the requested work fits our services and what information is needed to assess it. A consultation does not mean that an investigation has started; the engagement and scope are established first.

2. Agree on Scope, Budget & Communication

The proposed assignment identifies its objectives, priorities, deliverables and expected expenses. Fees are discussed privately for the particular matter. Work may be divided into phases, allowing a records review to identify which field assignments deserve attention next.

We agree on the appropriate point of contact and how developments will be communicated. Material changes in scope or requested additional work are discussed before proceeding. A family member funding an assignment should clarify who the client is and who is authorized to receive reports.

3. Review the Record & Follow the Leads

Depending on the assignment, we compare reports and statements, organize an event chronology, locate witnesses, conduct voluntary interviews and document relevant locations. A lead is treated as a question to investigate; an allegation is not treated as an established fact.

The investigator records where information came from and looks for independent support. If a detail cannot be confirmed, the report identifies that limitation. Time-sensitive sources, such as available recordings or witnesses who may become difficult to locate, help set priorities.

4. Receive Organized Findings

The agreed work product may include an investigative report, interview summaries, photographs, a chronology, records references or a list of remaining leads. Reports separate direct observations, statements supplied by others and unresolved questions.

We explain what the assignment addressed and where further work may be needed. Counsel evaluates legal significance, strategy and next steps. An investigation may clarify a disputed fact, identify a conflict or show that a lead cannot be supported.

What to Have Ready

• The case location, number and current stage, if known.
• Upcoming hearings, trial dates or other deadlines.
• Your attorney’s name and contact information, if applicable.
• A short chronology and the questions you want investigated.
• A list of available reports, recordings, photographs and potential witnesses.

Ask about an appropriate transfer method before sending sensitive case materials. Keep original files and documents intact and identify the source of each item you provide.

Working with Counsel

If your concern includes how an attorney handled a case, we can discuss factual investigative questions and coordination with independent counsel. An investigator does not decide whether legal malpractice occurred or advise you about litigation against a lawyer.

Questions about confidentiality, privilege, court filings and legal deadlines should be discussed with your attorney. Our role is to gather and document facts within the authorized assignment.

Discuss Your Assignment

Call 954-615-7382 to discuss the case location, current stage, deadlines and the questions you need answered. Nationwide assignments are arranged according to local licensing and applicable requirements.

Request a confidential consultation →

Illustrative service photographs do not depict actual ISUG clients, personnel or case evidence. ISUG provides investigative services; legal advice and representation come from an attorney. No particular outcome is guaranteed.