When you have concerns about your child’s care or surroundings, it can be difficult to know where to begin. You may have messages, observations, and unanswered questions—but need help organizing them into clear investigative objectives.

A discovery call with Key Investigative Services LLC gives you an opportunity to explain your situation, discuss what you want documented, and explore potential service options. Preparing a few key details beforehand can help you make the most of that conversation.

1. Write Down Your Specific Concerns

Start with a brief explanation of what prompted you to contact an investigator. Focus on specific incidents and observations rather than broad conclusions.

For example, instead of saying, “The other parent is irresponsible,” describe what happened, when it happened, and how you learned about it.

Separate information you personally observed from information someone else shared with you. If you are unsure whether something happened, identify it as a concern or question rather than an established fact.

You do not need to prove your entire case before contacting us. The goal is to provide a clear starting point.

2. Create a Simple Incident Timeline

A timeline can help explain a complicated situation without losing important details. For each incident, include:

• The date and approximate time.

• The location, if known.

• A factual description of what happened.

• Whether you witnessed it yourself or learned about it from someone else.

• Any existing messages, photographs, or records connected to it.

If a date or detail is uncertain, say so. An accurate account of what you know—and what you do not know—is more useful than filling in gaps with assumptions.

3. Identify Relevant Records You Already Have

Make a list of existing materials that may help explain your concerns. Depending on your situation, these might include messages, emails, photographs, calendars, or records of missed or changed parenting arrangements.

Relevant court orders and parenting schedules may also help explain the circumstances and any restrictions that could affect the assignment.

Keep original files and complete message conversations when possible. Avoid editing materials in ways that remove their context.

You do not need to send every document before your discovery call. Ask which materials are needed and how to submit them securely. Only provide records you are authorized to possess and share.

4. Explain What You Want to Learn or Document

An investigation works best when it has specific objectives.

Think about the questions you want addressed. Are you seeking documentation of particular activities, clarification of a recurring concern, or a review of information you already have?

During your discovery call, we can discuss whether your objectives are suitable for investigative work and what potential approaches may be available.

The scope of an assignment depends on the circumstances, available information, budget, and lawful investigative options. Not every concern can be resolved through surveillance or a database search.

5. Mention Important Dates Early

Let us know about upcoming hearings, attorney deadlines, or other dates that may affect your request.

Providing a deadline helps us assess availability and discuss a realistic scope. It does not guarantee that an assignment or report can be completed by that date.

An inquiry or discovery call does not reserve investigative time. Assignment scheduling requires a signed Investigative Services Agreement, receipt of the required payment, and confirmation from Key Investigative Services LLC.

6. Prepare Questions About the Process

Your discovery call is also an opportunity to understand how a potential assignment would work. Useful questions include:

• What investigative options may fit my objectives?

• What information would you need from me?

• What services and expenses would the proposed price cover?

• How would I receive updates?

• What reporting would be included?

• What factors could affect timing or cost?

Before investigative work begins, the accepted scope, fees, budget, and payment requirements should be clear.

Understand the Investigator’s Role

A private investigator gathers, reviews, and documents information within the agreed scope. An attorney provides legal advice and guidance about your custody matter.

Investigative findings may support further discussion with your attorney, but hiring an investigator does not guarantee a custody outcome. Findings may support your concerns, contradict them, or leave some questions unanswered.

At Key Investigative Services LLC, our focus is on documenting information accurately and helping you establish clear investigative objectives.