A desktop investigation is a research-based inquiry conducted entirely without physical surveillance or fieldwork. The investigator uses publicly available records, licensed commercial databases, court filings, corporate registrations, and open-source information to compile a factual profile of a subject, business, or situation. All work is performed remotely, typically from an office environment, without direct contact with the subject.
A desktop investigation means your investigator is doing research rather than following someone or visiting a location in person. They search through public records, court documents, business filings, and similar sources to gather documented facts about a person or company. The result is a written report summarizing what was found and where it came from.
A client considering a business partnership may request a desktop investigation to review a potential partner's litigation history, business registrations, and publicly reported financial judgments. Someone involved in a civil dispute may need documented background information on an opposing party before proceeding to litigation. Employers conducting due diligence on a candidate for a senior role may use a desktop investigation to verify professional history and check for relevant public records.
Licensed private investigators conducting desktop investigations are permitted to access publicly available records, court databases, and legally licensed data aggregators in accordance with applicable state laws and federal regulations such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Certain records, including sealed court documents, protected personal financial accounts, and law enforcement databases, are not accessible to private investigators. Permissible sources and methods can vary by jurisdiction, so the scope of a desktop investigation may differ depending on where the subject is located.
How long does a desktop investigation typically take to complete?
The timeline depends on the complexity of the research and the number of subjects or entities being examined. A straightforward individual background review may take one to three business days, while a more detailed investigation involving multiple jurisdictions or corporate structures can take a week or longer. Your investigator should provide an estimated timeframe before work begins.
What does the final report from a desktop investigation actually include, and can it be used in court?
A desktop investigation report typically includes documented findings with citations to the sources consulted, such as specific court case numbers, public record databases, or corporate filing records. Whether the report is admissible in court depends on how the evidence was obtained, how it is authenticated, and the rules of the jurisdiction where the case is being heard. An attorney should review any investigative report before it is introduced into legal proceedings.
