Frequently Asked Questions

“I’m worried… is it really okay to talk to a private investigator?”

“Can I even ask about this?”

If you’re feeling anxious about contacting a detective agency for the first time, you’re not alone. Many of our clients were nervous before their first consultation. To help you feel more comfortable, we’ve gathered answers to the questions we hear most often at FAM Overseas Investigation.

🔰First Time Using a Detective Agency

This is my first time consulting a detective. Where should I start?

Start with a free consultation. You can contact us by phone, email, LINE, or our online form. A dedicated case manager will listen to your situation, ask a few simple questions, and suggest an appropriate investigation plan—no obligation, no pressure.

I’m nervous. Aren’t detectives scary?

We understand that image, but the reality is different. Our team is made up of professionals who value kindness, respect, and clear communication. Many of our clients tell us that just talking to us made them feel calmer and more in control.

Can I talk to you about anything?

Yes. Please feel free to discuss any concern you cannot easily share with friends, family, or colleagues—such as cheating, missing persons, online romance scams, harassment, workplace issues, fraud, or overseas problems. We will listen without judgment and keep everything strictly confidential.

Can I consult you without telling my family or workplace?

Yes. We respond with complete confidentiality. Consultations are held in private rooms or via secure online tools. We can adapt contact methods and timing to avoid drawing attention, and we will never contact you in a way that risks exposing your consultation.

What makes FAM Overseas Investigation different from other agencies?

We combine global investigative expertise with a human-centered approach. Our advantages include:

  • A dedicated person in charge (exclusive responsibility system)
  • Clear definition of investigative goals and success
  • Carry-over / re-investigation systems for certain cases
  • OSINT and cyber security specialists, including OSCP holders
  • International offices and partners across Japan, Asia, the U.S., and Europe
  • Membership in WAD, CII, and the Japan Survey Industry Association

📞Consultation and Estimates

Is the first consultation really free?

Yes. All initial consultations are free of charge. You can ask questions, explain your situation, and consider options without any cost or obligation to proceed.

Can I get an estimate by phone, email, or LINE without visiting your office?

Yes. In many cases we can provide a rough estimate based on your explanation. For complex or international cases, we may need a bit more information to give a precise quote, but we can still provide an approximate budget range at an early stage.

Do I need a reservation? Can I get same-day consultation?

You don’t need to make a reservation and we can do same-day consultations. FAM Overseas Investigation is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Will I be pressured to sign a contract during the consultation?

No. You can use the consultation purely to “sort things out” or “just get advice.” We never use high-pressure sales tactics. Whether you proceed or not is entirely your decision.

Will I be charged if I decide not to proceed after receiving an estimate?

No. There is no fee for declining an estimate. You only pay if and when you decide to sign a contract for an investigation.

🧾Contracts and Fees

How does the contract process work?

After we propose an investigation plan tailored to your case, we will clearly explain:

  • Scope and purpose of the investigation
  • Methods we may use
  • Estimated duration
  • Total cost and any conditions for extension

Only when you are fully satisfied and have had time to consider, we proceed to a written contract and begin the investigation.

Can I cancel after signing a contract?

You may cancel before the investigation begins. We will explain cancellation rules (including any administrative costs) in detail at the time of contract so you can decide with confidence.

When and how do I pay?

In most cases, payment is made at the time of contract signing. For longer or complex cases, we may arrange staged payments. We always try to be flexible and discuss what works best for you.

What are the payment methods?

We accept various payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, online payments via PayPal or Wise, so you can choose the method that is most convenient for you. If you are worried about cost, please discuss it with us during the consultation.

Are there any additional costs beyond the agreed amount?

If the investigation proceeds within the agreed scope, no additional costs will be charged. If extra work is needed—such as an extended surveillance period, urgent deployment, or additional locations—we will always explain and obtain your approval first.

🕵️Investigations

What types of investigations can you handle?

We handle a wide range of cases, including:

We do not accept any requests that are illegal, unethical, or violate human rights.

Will the person being investigated find out?

It is extremely rare for an investigation target to become aware of our activities. Our investigators are experienced and use proven methods and equipment to maintain a low profile and minimize risk.

Will I receive updates during the investigation?

Yes. We can provide progress reports according to your preference—daily updates, milestones, or only at key points. We can use LINE, WhatsApp, Signal, email, or phone, depending on what feels safest and most convenient for you.

What happens if there is no movement from the target during surveillance?

If the subject does not move or conditions are not ideal (for example, due to weather), we may carry the investigation over to another date. Certain plans include a “carry-over guarantee,” which we will explain during your consultation.

Can I request a male or female investigator?

Yes. In many cases, you can specify the gender of the investigator or counselor, especially for sensitive matters such as infidelity, domestic violence, or harassment. We will do our best to honor your request.

Can you investigate outside Japan?

Yes. FAM Overseas Investigation has teams and partners in Asia, Oceania, North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. We frequently conduct cross-border investigations, such as overseas cheating, international missing persons, business background checks, and more.

🧩Results and After-Investigation Support

What if I want to stop the investigation halfway?

It is possible to terminate the investigation mid-way. In that case, we will calculate the fees based on the work already performed (initial fees and actual costs). If we must cancel due to our own circumstances, we will refund appropriately.

What kind of report will I receive?

You will receive a comprehensive written report which may include:

  • Chronological summaries
  • Photographs and/or video stills
  • Supporting documents and findings

Our reports are prepared with the expectation that they may be used as evidence in mediation, court, or negotiations, when applicable.

Can you coordinate with my lawyer or introduce one?

Yes. With your permission, we can share findings with your attorney and adjust our work to support legal strategy. If you do not yet have a lawyer, we can introduce a suitable professional in the relevant field (family law, criminal, corporate, etc.).

Can your investigation help me claim compensation or damages?

Yes. In many cases—such as infidelity, fraud, or defamation—strong evidence is essential. Once we have collected reliable proof, you and your lawyer can use it as the basis for claims, negotiations, or lawsuits. We can also support litigation preparation investigations if needed.

Do you provide support after the case is closed?

Yes. We offer after-investigation support, including explanations of results, future options, and referrals to other professionals (lawyers, counselors, etc.). You are always welcome to contact us again if your situation evolves.

🛡️Privacy, Legality, and Safety

Will my personal information or case details be leaked?

No. We operate under a strict information management system. All staff sign confidentiality agreements, and all case data is stored securely with access controls and encryption. We do not share your information with third parties without your consent, except when legally required.

Will my family, partner, or workplace find out I contacted you?

We make every effort to prevent this. We can:

  • Use neutral names on caller ID or mailings
  • Adjust contact times to avoid busy or sensitive periods
  • Use email or messaging apps only when it is safe to do so

Please tell us about your situation, and we will plan communication in a way that protects your privacy.

Is your investigation legal?

Yes. We operate in compliance with the Detective Business Act of Japan and relevant laws in each jurisdiction. We will not accept or perform any investigation that is illegal, clearly abusive, or unethical.

What security measures do you have for digital data?

We employ advanced cybersecurity practices, including OSCP-qualified specialists, encrypted storage, access logging, and monitored servers. Sensitive information is handled on a strictly need-to-know basis.

👩‍👧‍👦 Women, Minors, Elderly Clients, etc.

Can I request a female counselor or investigator?

Yes. Many of our clients—especially in infidelity, harassment, or abuse cases—prefer to speak with a female professional. Please let us know when booking, and we will arrange this whenever possible.

Can minors consult you?

In principle, we do not accept consultations from minors alone. However, we can respond if a parent or legal guardian participates and gives consent. If you are unsure, please contact us and we can guide you.

Can I consult on behalf of my elderly parents or a relative?

Yes. Family members often contact us on behalf of elderly parents or relatives who have difficulty reaching out or traveling. We will still try to confirm details directly with the person concerned when appropriate and possible.

Do you handle serious personal danger cases, such as domestic violence or stalking?

Yes. We have handled many cases involving domestic violence, stalking, and threats. In these cases, your safety is the top priority. We may recommend coordination with police, shelters, or legal professionals, alongside our investigation.

🧠 Other Frequently Asked Questions

If I’m not satisfied with the results, can you re-investigate?

In some cases, yes. We provide after-sales support and can discuss re-investigation or additional angles if new information arises or if you wish to look deeper. Any extra work will be clearly explained and agreed in advance.

Can you visit my home or another location for consultation?

Yes, in certain areas we offer in-person visit consultations, especially for clients who have mobility issues or privacy concerns. Please ask about this option when you contact us.

Do you support online consultations and remote contracts?

Yes. We regularly handle online consultations via Zoom, LINE, or other secure tools, and can complete contracts remotely using email and electronic signatures. This is especially convenient for overseas clients.

Can you help even if I live outside Japan?

Absolutely. Many of our clients live overseas but have concerns related to Japan or Asia—for example, a partner living in Japan, missing family, corporate risks, or cross-border relationships. Our international structure allows us to coordinate investigations globally.

I’m still unsure if my problem is “big enough” to consult you. What should I do?

If it’s worrying you, it’s big enough. You don’t have to decide anything today—just talk to us once. We can help you clarify the situation and suggest realistic options, even if you decide not to proceed with a full investigation.