Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often. If you don't find what you're looking for, call us directly — a confidential consultation costs nothing.
Getting Started
- 01
When should someone hire a private investigator?
Private investigators are hired when reliable information or documentation is needed and can't be obtained through normal means. Common situations include suspected infidelity, child custody disputes, workers' compensation investigations, insurance fraud, locating individuals or witnesses, and background investigations. If you're unsure whether your situation warrants an investigation, a confidential consultation is the best first step.
- 02
Is it legal to hire a private investigator?
Yes. Hiring a licensed private investigator is completely legal. Private investigators operate within state and federal laws while conducting surveillance, gathering information, and documenting evidence. Now You Know Investigations is licensed in Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, and South Dakota.
- 03
How do I get started?
The first step is a confidential consultation. Call our office or request a consultation through the website. We'll review the details of your situation, explain what's possible, and give you a realistic picture of what an investigation would involve — before you make any commitment.
- 04
Is hiring a private investigator expensive?
The cost varies depending on the type of case, the time required, and the complexity of the investigation. During an initial consultation, we review the situation and provide realistic expectations regarding scope and potential costs. We're straightforward about what an investigation is likely to involve — and what it won't.
- 05
How long does an investigation take?
It depends on the type of case and what's being documented. A straightforward locate may be completed within a day or two. A surveillance investigation may take multiple days over a period of weeks, depending on the subject's availability and activity. We're honest about timelines from the start — and we don't pad cases or drag out assignments.
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Get in Touch- Licensed: NE • IA • MO • SD
- 30+ years field experience
- Discreet & confidential
What Stays Private
- 01
Will my identity and information remain confidential?
Yes. Client confidentiality is a core part of our work. All information shared with our investigators is handled securely and used only for the purposes of the investigation. Sensitive records are managed carefully and protected throughout the case.
- 02
Will the person I'm investigating find out?
In most cases, no. Professional investigators are trained to conduct surveillance and gather information discreetly. Investigations are carefully planned to avoid drawing attention and to minimize the risk of detection. Maintaining confidentiality protects both the integrity of the investigation and the client.
How Surveillance Works
Private Investigators at Now You Know Investigations are highly qualified and experienced. We take every precaution to remain discreet during the investigation. Before initiating an investigation we develop a sophisticated strategy with our professional team and follow all the security measures to keep the operation inconspicuous.
Yes — and it's one of our genuine strengths. We grew up on a farm. In small communities and rural areas, an unfamiliar face draws attention quickly. We move through these environments naturally because we came from them. Many workers' compensation and insurance claims originate in rural settings, and our background means we can conduct effective surveillance in places where other investigators stand out immediately.
We communicate when there's something worth reporting. Some clients want regular contact throughout an investigation — others prefer to hear from us only when something significant develops. Either way, we adjust to what works for you. What we don't do is send daily check-ins for the sake of it. After 30 years, we've learned what information actually moves a case forward.
Yes. Our investigators are experienced, professional witnesses who can clearly explain their methods and defend their findings under cross-examination. When a case proceeds to litigation, you can count on a well-prepared investigator who can present evidence credibly and hold up in court. The footage gets you to court — we help you get through it.
Results depend on the type of case and the information available at the start. While outcomes vary, experienced investigators significantly increase the likelihood of obtaining useful documentation or evidence. We're straightforward about what's realistic from the beginning — and we report what we find accurately, whether or not it's what the client was hoping to hear.
Area & Licensing
In many cases, yes. Now You Know Investigations is licensed in Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, and South Dakota, and we regularly conduct investigations across the region. For matters outside our licensed states, we evaluate each situation individually and coordinate with licensed investigators where appropriate to ensure the work is conducted properly.
The Best Answer Comes From a Conversation
Every case is different. A confidential consultation costs nothing and gives you a realistic picture of what an investigation would involve.