Mike LaCorte Writes for The Law Society on Investigator Due Diligence
Instructing the wrong private investigator can expose a law firm to serious regulatory, financial and reputational risk.
Writing for The Law Society, Conflict International co-founder and CEO Mike LaCorte explains why solicitors must carry out meaningful due diligence before engaging investigative support, and why relying on a recommendation or an impressive website is not enough.
Why investigator due diligence matters
The consequences of appointing an unsuitable investigator can extend far beyond a disappointing result. Law firms need confidence that anyone acting on their behalf operates lawfully, protects sensitive information and meets appropriate professional standards.
Mike’s article follows a case in which a family solicitor was fined £17,500 in connection with the engagement of a private investigator. It is a timely reminder that responsibility begins before the first instruction is given.
Before instructing an investigator, solicitors should consider:
- Membership of a recognised professional body
- Relevant experience and specialist expertise
- Data protection and information-security procedures
- Compliance with applicable laws and regulations
- Insurance, governance and professional accountability
- Whether the evidence obtained can withstand legal scrutiny
Professional standards cannot be assumed
Mike has more than 25 years of experience in private investigation, corporate intelligence and complex cross-border matters. Alongside his role as CEO of Conflict International, he serves as President of the Association of British Investigators.
In his article, Mike discusses how ABI accreditation helps solicitors identify investigators who have been independently vetted and remain accountable to recognised professional standards.
Read Mike’s full article:
Due diligence begins before you pick up the phone – The Law Society
Instruct an experienced investigative partner
Conflict International provides discreet, compliant investigation and litigation-support services to law firms, corporations and private clients worldwide.
Our international teams combine specialist investigative experience with clearly defined governance and information-security controls. Conflict International is certified to ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 and is a member of the Association of British Investigators.
If you require investigative support, or would like to discuss the right approach before issuing an instruction, contact our team for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.