You do not need to have all the answers
People often contact an investigator while dealing with uncertainty, conflict or a time-sensitive decision. You may know what feels wrong without knowing which service could help. Begin with the outcome you need to understand, and separate what you know from what you suspect.
PDC’s established approach is to listen and explain options. The free resources on this site can help you organise the basic information before deciding whether professional work is appropriate.
Make the first conversation useful
Prepare a short outline you can explain without retelling every detail. Keep any critical dates visible. If you have already consulted a solicitor, accountant or another professional, explain their involvement so that enquiries can be coordinated.
- What happened, and what decision do you need to make?
- Which facts are supported by a document or direct observation?
- What have you already tried, and what did it establish?
- Is there a deadline or a practical limit on the work?
- How and when is it appropriate to contact you?
Ask for the explanation you need
If a proposed method, fee or limitation is unclear, ask for it to be explained in plain language. It is reasonable to want to know what a first stage is likely to establish and what would happen if it produces no useful lead.
You can also ask for communication arrangements that suit your circumstances, such as written information before a call or a nominated representative. Those arrangements should be agreed rather than assumed.
Keep decisions and updates organised
Retain the agreed brief, quotation and later changes together. Record who has authority to approve additional work. Where several colleagues or advisers are involved, one agreed contact can reduce conflicting instructions and unnecessary circulation of information.
An update should help you understand progress against the brief. New information may justify continuing, changing direction or stopping. The useful question is what the next stage will add to the decision you need to make.
Know when another service is needed
An investigator is not a substitute for emergency assistance, legal representation or specialist financial advice. If a matter involves immediate danger, use the appropriate emergency service. If a legal deadline is approaching, speak to your solicitor promptly rather than waiting for an exploratory enquiry.
If you are dissatisfied with the service or communication, the complaints page explains how to raise a specific concern. If the issue is an incorrect fact in a report, identify the passage and the supporting information so it can be reviewed accurately.
Questions you may have
Can I have someone with me for the first conversation?
Explain who they are and whether you want them to help with communication or act on your behalf. Authority to receive confidential information should be agreed.
Can I just ask for a basic pointer?
Yes. The site provides a route for an initial basic question and free resources. A pointer is limited guidance, not a completed investigation or a promise of a particular result.
What if I decide not to proceed?
An initial discussion should help you make that choice. If you have already instructed paid work, check the agreed scope and cancellation arrangements.