Private Investigator Services in Los Angeles & Orange County
When you need a private investigator, you need answers fast. Above Limits Investigations provides licensed PI services throughout Southern California. Our experienced private investigator team brings decades of law enforcement background to every case. Whether you need surveillance, background checks, or court evidence, we deliver professional results.
Call 24/7: 714-504-5554
What Does a Private Investigator Do?
A licensed private investigator conducts investigations for individuals and businesses. PIs gather evidence and provide documentation for legal cases. In California, all private investigators must be licensed by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services.
Core Private Investigator Services
Our team specializes in these key areas:
- Surveillance – We document activities through discrete observation
- Background Checks – We verify personal and professional history
- Asset Searches – We locate hidden property and accounts
- Missing Persons – We find people who don’t want to be found
- Evidence Collection – We gather proof that holds up in court
Types of Private Investigator Cases We Handle
Family Law Private Investigator Services
We excel at sensitive family matters. Our private investigator team handles these common cases:
- Child Custody Cases – We document living conditions and parenting
- Infidelity Investigations – We provide proof of cheating
- Pre-Marriage Checks – We verify your partner’s past
- Divorce Support – We find hidden assets and income
Business Private Investigator Services
Companies hire private investigators for many reasons:
- Workers Comp Fraud – We catch fake injury claims
- Employee Screening – We verify work history
- Due Diligence – We check out business partners
- Theft Investigation – We uncover employee theft
Legal Support
Attorneys rely on our investigators for:
- Finding Witnesses – We locate key people for cases
- Process Service – We serve papers to difficult targets
- Evidence Gathering – We collect proof for trials
- Case Support – We help build strong cases
Why Hire a Private Investigator?
Legal Benefits of Private Investigators
Licensed private investigators provide key advantages:
- Court Evidence – We know how to collect legal proof
- Law Compliance – We work within California laws
- Pro Reports – Our documents meet court standards
- Expert Testimony – We can testify about findings
Practical Benefits
Hiring a professional also offers:
- Time Savings – We work while you live your life
- Better Resources – We access special databases
- Neutral View – We provide unbiased facts
- Your Safety – Avoid risky confrontations
Private Investigator Services by Location
Los Angeles Private Investigator Coverage
Our LA private investigators serve all areas. We cover:
- West LA – Including Santa Monica and Beverly Hills
- Downtown – Financial district and courts
- Valley – All of San Fernando Valley
- South Bay – Long Beach to PV
Orange County Private Investigator Coverage
Our OC private investigators work throughout:
- North OC – Anaheim to Fullerton
- Central OC – Santa Ana and Tustin
- South OC – Irvine to Mission Viejo
- Coast – Newport to San Clemente
How Much Does a Private Investigator Cost?
Private investigator costs vary by case type. Typical rates include:
- Surveillance – $95-$150 per hour
- Background Checks – $500-$2,500
- Asset Searches – $750-$3,500
- Missing Persons – $1,500-$5,000
See our cost guide for details. We offer free consultations too.
How to Choose the Right Private Investigator
Private Investigator Qualifications
When selecting a private investigator for your case, verify:
- CA License – Must be current and valid
- Insurance – Should have liability coverage
- Experience – Look for relevant case work
- References – Ask for past client reviews
Warning Signs
Avoid anyone who:
- Promises specific results
- Suggests breaking laws
- Has no real office
- Wants all money upfront
- Won’t show their license
Private Investigator Tools and Technology
Modern private investigators use advanced equipment:
- HD Cameras – For clear video evidence
- GPS Trackers – Where legally allowed
- Databases – Professional info sources
- Digital Tools – Computer analysis software
- Bug Detectors – Counter-surveillance gear
Learn more about investigation technology at the California Association of Licensed Investigators.
Legal Rules for Investigation Work
What’s Legal
In California, licensed professionals can:
- Watch people in public places
- Access public records
- Interview willing people
- Take photos in public
- Serve legal papers
- Testify in court
What’s Not Legal
Professionals must follow the law. They cannot:
- Enter private property
- Hack phones or computers
- Pretend to be police
- Access sealed records
- Use illegal methods
Read more about regulations at National Association of Legal Investigators.
Common Questions
How Long Do Investigations Take?
Most cases take 1-2 weeks. Complex cases may take longer. We give you a timeline during your consultation.
Is Hiring Someone Legal?
Yes, hiring a licensed professional is legal. We follow all California laws and regulations.
Will They Know They’re Being Watched?
No. We use unmarked cars and blend in. Our team is trained to be invisible.
Can You Help with Custody Cases?
Yes. Custody investigations are our specialty. We provide evidence courts need.
Start Your Investigation Today
When you need a private investigator, choose Above Limits. We deliver results that matter. Our team has the experience you need.
Contact Us Today:
- Available 24/7
- Free consultation
- Licensed and insured
- Court experts
- All of Southern California
Call Now: 714-504-5554
Need a local professional? We’re ready to help. Get the facts today from a trusted private investigator.