UNDERSTANDING INVOICES

HOURLY BILLING AND TYPICAL EXPENSES ASSOCIATED WITH PRIVATE INVESTIGATIONS

At Courtside Legal Investigators, we believe in clear, upfront communication about costs. Our goal is to provide high-quality investigative services while helping clients manage their budgets effectively and without surprises.


Hourly Billing Structure

Our services are typically billed at an hourly rate, which varies depending on:

  • The type of investigation (e.g., surveillance, background checks, litigation support)
  • The level of complexity or specialization required
  • Travel time and on-site field work
  • Urgency or after-hours service requests

We provide detailed time logs so you know exactly how your time is being used and what’s being accomplished.



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Typical Expenses

In addition to hourly rates, some investigations involve standard out-of-pocket expenses, including:

  • Mileage and Travel Costs
    Based on the federal mileage rate or a flat travel fee for work outside a certain radius.
  • Database Access Fees
    Certain background checks or asset searches may require access to premium databases.
  • Court Records and Document Retrieval
    Fees from courts or government agencies for pulling case files or certified records.
  • Surveillance Expenses
    This may include vehicle rentals, hotel stays, meals during long assignments, or specialized equipment if required.
  • Third-Party Services
    Occasionally, costs are incurred for lab testing, forensic services, or expert analysis outside of our firm.


Estimates and Retainers

For many investigations, we offer initial estimates and work off a retainer to begin the case. We communicate regularly about usage and provide itemized invoices to ensure full transparency.


Integrity in Every Aspect of the Work—Including Pricing

We understand that every case is different. That’s why we tailor our approach—and our billing—to match your specific needs. At Courtside Legal Investigators, you get results backed by professionalism, discretion, and honest pricing.


Contact us today for a consultation and a clear understanding of your case’s potential costs.