Observation with a clear commercial purpose.
Some questions cannot be resolved through records alone. Where appropriate to a lawful commercial instruction, surveillance can help establish relevant activity through direct observation.
Agree what the work is intended to establish
ASE discusses the objective, locations, suitability and available support before proposing surveillance. The approach must fit the enquiry, rather than collecting information without a defined purpose.
Covert, static and mobile surveillance
Surveillance for a commercial investigation is normally covert, meaning it is carried out discreetly rather than openly. It may be static, mobile or a combination of the two.
Static surveillance observes premises, a vehicle or a particular location from a fixed position. Mobile surveillance follows a person on foot or by vehicle, and may need more than one operative working in coordination.
What will the findings show?
Reporting records relevant observations and their limitations. It should distinguish what was observed from what might be inferred. An observation does not automatically explain a person's intentions or the wider circumstances.
Is discretion guaranteed?
Discretion informs planning, but no operation is presented as having zero risk of discovery. We discuss relevant constraints before the scope is agreed.
Can you guarantee evidence for a court case?
No particular finding, legal outcome or acceptance of material is guaranteed. Where proceedings are contemplated, tell us so the intended use and reporting requirements can be discussed with your legal adviser.
What is the difference between static and mobile surveillance?
The difference is whether the observation moves. Static surveillance stays in one position, while mobile surveillance moves with the person being observed. Many assignments use both, with the balance decided by what the work needs to establish.
Discuss whether surveillance is appropriate.
Start with the question you need answered, not a proposed method. We will assess whether surveillance belongs within a suitable scope.
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