Hire a Private Investigator to Help Prove Cohabitation

If you’re looking to hire a private investigator to help prove cohabitation, there are several steps you can follow to ensure you find a reliable professional and gather the evidence you need.

Steps to Hiring a Private Investigator:

1.   Research Potential Investigators:

– Look for local private investigators or firms in your area.
– Check their credentials, licenses, and certifications to ensure they are qualified.
– Look for reviews and testimonials to gauge their reputation and success rates. Also, do they have reviews that are in reference to your particular need. In this case, positive reviews for cohabitation or alimony reduction/elimination.

2.   Conduct Interviews:

– Schedule consultations with a few top candidates. We believe it is of the utmost importance that you are comfortable with whom you chose to work with. If they come off as “used car salesman-y”, look elsewhere.
– Ask about their experience with cohabitation cases and success stories.
– Inquire about the methods they use to gather evidence.
– Discuss their fees and any additional costs involved.

3.   Check References:

– Ask for references from previous clients who had similar cases. This may not be possible due to privacy concerns, but online reviews can suffice.
– Contact these references to get their feedback on the investigator’s professionalism and effectiveness. Again, check online resources and ask for possible attorney references. Also look to see if the investigator is a member of industry associations.

4.   Understand Legal Implications:

– Make sure the investigator operates within the confines of the law.
– Understand what types of evidence can be legally collected and used in court.

5.   Clear Communication:

– Clearly articulate the goals of your investigation.
– Ensure the investigator understands what you need to prove cohabitation. If the investigator is experienced in cohabitation investigations, they should know what evidence is necessary in that state.

6.   Sign a Contract:

– Make sure to read and understand the contract before signing.
– The contract should outline the scope of work, fees, confidentiality agreements, and the expected timeline.

7.   Regular Updates:

– Ensure the investigator will provide regular updates on the progress of the investigation.
– Agree on a communication plan to keep you informed.

Types of Evidence that Can Prove Cohabitation:

–   Surveillance:  Photos and videos showing the involved party or ex-spouse entering and leaving the same residence regularly. Proof of overnight stays with the ex-spouse.
– Public Records:  Information such as mailing addresses, shared utility bills, or joint leases.
–   Social Media:  Posts, tags, and photos indicating a shared living situation. Background checks can reveal potential joint assets.
–   Financial Records:  Evidence of shared financial responsibilities like rent, utility bills, or joint bank accounts.

Where to Find Private Investigators:

–   Professional Associations:  Organizations like the National Association of Investigative Specialists or state-specific associations.
–   Online Directories:  Websites like Google or Yelp to find local private investigators with good reviews.
–   Referrals:  Ask attorneys, friends, or family members if they can recommend a reputable investigator.
–   Law Enforcement Connections:  Sometimes retired police officers work as private investigators and have good references.

Questions to Ask a Private Investigator:

– How many years of experience do you have in investigating cohabitation cases?
– What is your success rate in proving cohabitation?
– What methods will you use to gather evidence?
– How will you ensure my privacy and confidentiality?

Reduce Alimony With Cohabitation Investigations

Alimony, or post-marital support, often referred to as “alimony payments” is a financial obligation one spouse pays to the other after separation or divorce to maintain the recipient’s standard of living. However, certain circumstances, such as the recipient cohabitating with a new partner, can potentially be grounds for reducing or terminating alimony. Here are some essential facts and steps to consider regarding cohabitation investigations and reducing alimony.

What is Cohabitation?

Cohabitation usually means that the alimony recipient is living with another adult in a relationship akin to marriage. This can encompass sharing a home, expenses, and often includes a romantic relationship.

Legal Considerations

The impact of cohabitation on alimony varies by jurisdiction. Some states may have laws explicitly addressing this, while others may leave it to judicial discretion.

Alimony Investigations

Investigating Cohabitation

An investigation can provide evidence to support a claim for reducing or terminating alimony. Here are some steps that can be taken:

Hire a Private Investigator

Private investigators can collect detailed evidence of cohabitation. This may include photographic or video evidence, testimonies, or gathering data on shared expenses and living arrangements.

Gather Evidence Such As:

– Shared utility bills and rental agreements.
– Social media posts suggesting a life together (e.g., vacations, gatherings).
– Evidence of both parties using the same address (e.g., mail, deliveries).
– Household duties i.e. grocery shopping, mowing the lawn, walking the dog, etc.

Document Financial Interdependence:

– Proving that the alimony recipient is financially supported by their new partner can be crucial. Evidence might include:
– Bank statements showing shared accounts.
– Proof of shared household expenses.
– Statements showing monetary transfers between the parties.

Legal Action to Modify Alimony

Once sufficient evidence is gathered, the following steps can be taken:

1.  Consult with an Attorney:

Retain a family law attorney with experience in alimony and cohabitation. They can provide advice based on local laws and help prepare your case.

2.  File a Motion to Modify Alimony:

The attorney will file a motion with the court requesting a review of the alimony arrangement based on the evidence of cohabitation.

3.  Present Evidence in Court:

During a hearing, present all collected evidence that demonstrates cohabitation and financial interdependence. The judge will consider this when making a decision.

Possible Outcomes

• Reduction or Termination of Alimony
• If the court is convinced that cohabitation or financial support by the new partner significantly reduces the recipient’s financial need, it may reduce or terminate alimony.
• Denial of Motion – If the evidence is insufficient or the court does not find it compelling, the alimony arrangement may remain unchanged.