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Research Associates was first established in August 1977 as a private intelligence agency specialising in the location of missing persons, including debtors. Over time we have evolved into an approachable, highly professional intelligence and investigation organisation with a worldwide reputation for delivering solutions and results, helping resolve problems with unparalleled focus and expertise.
With over 40 years of experience serving private citizens, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and business and public sector organisations, Research Associates has a unique wealth of industry knowledge and provides an unrivalled level of service for its clients.
Research Associates has been accurately locating the confirmed whereabouts of debtors throughout the UK and worldwide for over 40 years and is widely recognised as one of the best private investigation agencies globally for debtor tracing. We have helped trace missing debtors for some of the world’s largest and most well-known financial institutions, including banks, building societies and mortgage lenders, as well as various government departments. We now offer the same specialist service to business and corporate clients as well as private individuals.
We pride ourselves on delivering a rapid turnaround; in supplying a fully confirmed address for an absconding debtor, whilst always working within stringent legislation (Article 8 of the Human Rights Act, the Data Protection Act and, where relevant, the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000). Over the last four decades, Research Associates has amassed vast in-house records, databases, and legal resources, enabling us to supply debtors’ addresses more rapidly and cost-effectively than less well-established agencies who often rely on non-legal means.
A core principle of Research Associates’ debtor tracing policy is that at no time during the tracing of the individual do they become aware they are being investigated or know they have been found. This ensures that the legal process is not frustrated or compromised and that the individual is not given any opportunity to hide assets. Subsequently, Research Associates may also implement a legally-compliant asset searching service to effectively locate liquid and tangible assets.
Some debtors often disappear with the specific intention of avoiding payment, frequently attempting to hide their current whereabouts using false or altered names, not registering for services associated with their residential address, or changing their registered name (privately by deed poll). Research Associates effectively traces people as a matter of routine, even in difficult circumstances where individuals are actively trying to remain hidden.
Where a debtor is either involved in ongoing court procedures or a crime, our team is able to instigate legally compliant cutting-edge techniques to locate both tangible and liquid assets in the UK and worldwide.
Note: For legal reasons, it is beneficial to inform us at the time of initial instruction that we are locating a debtor, as we are then able to make use of helpful legislative consents, which allow us legal access to otherwise prohibited databases, some of which we may not have the right to use under other circumstances. This ensures that locating a person becomes more straightforward and, therefore, more cost-effective.
Since every investigation is essentially unique and because of the delicate nature of all we do, before commencement of any assignment we suggest you call and speak with us. We find by talking through the outline of your current circumstance in confidence and asking just a few non-intrusive questions, we become fully able to comprehend your specific requirement. This will also enable you to get to know how we work and for us to give a clear plan of action, costs, turn around time and to decide whether you wish to instruct us.
We offer a confidential consultation, tailored investigation strategy, and rapid, detailed reporting.
Get in touch for a FREE, no-obligation, private consultation. Discuss your circumstances, the obstacles you encounter, and the objectives you aim to fulfill through your investigation.
We will propose a tailor-made approach and specific tactics for your situation, utilising our extensive array of services. Transparent pricing will be provided, and your plan will be agreed upon before we proceed with the investigation.
Our expert private investigators will carry out a discreet, comprehensive, and professional investigation, providing a detailed report within 24 hours of completion, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the findings.
Private investigators use various methods, including database searches, public records, and extensive networks, to trace debtors. They gather information about the debtor’s current location, contact details, and financial status.
The time required for debtor tracing can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the information available. It may take days to weeks to locate a debtor. Once a debtor is located, you can take appropriate actions, such as debt recovery or legal proceedings, to resolve the outstanding debt.
Since 1977, we’ve been known for our outstanding quality of service, which includes professional and experienced investigators, access to legal intelligence, state-of-the-art techniques, comprehensive coverage, fast response, and excellent standards of practice.
No, the initial consultation at Research Associates is offered at no cost to you. It’s an opportunity for us to understand your needs and for you to learn more about our services. There are no obligations or fees associated with this consultation.
Absolutely, you can trust that your case will remain confidential when you hire our agency. We consider confidentiality a top priority and take several measures to ensure it. Our private investigators are trained to handle cases discreetly, and we offer consultations protected by Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs). These legally binding agreements guarantee that any information shared during the consultation and throughout the investigation will remain strictly confidential. You can have full confidence that your privacy is protected when working with us.
The answer is yes, it is legal to hire a private investigator in the United Kingdom. Private investigators operate within the boundaries of UK law and are subject to regulations and licensing requirements. When you hire a reputable private investigator agency like Research Associates, you can trust that your investigation will be conducted in compliance with all legal and ethical standards.
A private investigator in the UK can legally perform various tasks such as conducting surveillance, gathering evidence, performing background checks and more. However, they must operate within the boundaries of the law, which means they cannot do things like hack into private communications, trespass on private property, or make arrests. For a more detailed exploration of what private investigators can and cannot do in the UK, read our blog here.
Research Associates is proud to be associated with prestigious organisations in the field of investigation and forensic sciences. As a distinguished member of the UK’s Association of British Investigators, we uphold the highest standards of professional conduct and ethical practices.
Furthermore, our affiliation with The Institute of Professional Investigators and the World Association of Detectives Inc. underscores our commitment to global excellence in the investigative industry.
We also take pride in our membership with the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, which demonstrates our dedication to advancing forensic science and maintaining the highest level of expertise in our field.
Confidentiality is key to our work; therefore, we treat all investigations with utmost discretion and privacy throughout, assuring loyalty and professionalism at all times.
We offer a comprehensive range of services, from locating people and dealing with personal relationship investigation, to fraud recovery and resolving blackmail.
Over the years, we have worked to provide solicitors, barristers and other advisors with hard evidence in the civil and criminal courts of England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and overseas, including the USA and other jurisdictions.
Our business spans the globe, from your doorstep to wherever investigation takes us. Research Associates boasts a formidable network of multinational and multi-disciplined experts, resulting in a complete global and local capability. Research Associates is one of the world’s most elite private detective agencies, first established in 1977.
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It is important to discuss the nature of your situation and agree, strategy, timeframe and cost before moving forward. If you are unable to call now on 020 7243 1000, use our contact form.
Director (MD) / Principal Investigator
Director / Senior Investigator
Director / Senior Investigator
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