Since the publication of the first edition many new certification programs have begun in private and community colleges, including a course designed by the author for Boston University and a specialty certification by the U.S. Association for Professional Investigators. Reflecting the surge in interest into the investigative field, this second edition of the bestselling Practical Handbook for Private Investigators contains more than 20 percent new material and has been adopted as required material in several new certification programs.

A highly useful reference, the Practical Handbook for Professional Investigators, Second Edition describes the range of investigations for which a professional investigator’s services might be required such as criminal investigations, fraud detection and investigation, surveillance, arson and insurance, skip tracing, and missing persons. Packed with case studies and examples drawn from the author’s 33 years of experience, this handy resource covers everything from how to set up, market, and run an agency to the ethics of confidentiality and conflict of interest. It includes sections on how to get licensed, how to use various lo- and high-tech investigative tools including the internet, and how to take statements and implement effective interview and interrogation tactics by the non-law enforcement professional. New information in the second edition includes an updated and revised job description, realistic earning capabilities, and future outlook for the profession; new case studies involving legal investigatory practices and how to navigate the most recent privacy legislation; additional advice on case file management with examples of new paperwork and updated forms; and increased information on fraud and domestic cases, as well as the component method of criminal defense investigations.

Designed as an up-to-date, nuts-and-bolts learning tool for students and as a day-to-day reference resource for the investigative professional of any type or level of experience, the Practical Handbook for Professional Investigators, Second Edition provides an unparalleled guide to the ins and outs of the world of today’s private investigator.

5 Responses to “Practical Handbook for Professional Investigators, Second Edition”

1. SoCal says:

   March 31, 2008 at 12:00 am

   I checked this book out of a library while studying for (and passing) the California Private Investigator examination. I found it to be too general for that purpose. I think this book is probably better in a classroom or other setting where someone can ground the materials in concrete experience.
2. Michael Beltz, FCI says:

   December 11, 2004 at 12:00 am

   Please note that this review is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, an assessment of Mr. McMahon’s skills in and/or knowledge of the private investigation profession. I personally consider Mr. McMahon to be one of the premier investigators in the history of the profession. Certainly anyone who has earned the coveted distinction of Certified Legal Investigator (CLI) is an elite investigator regardless of any other contributions to the profession – and Mr. McMahon’s contributions are many.

   As a licensed private investigator and college instructor of private investigation courses, I think that Mr. Rory J. McMahon, CLI, FCI has written a solid and informative book. Please understand however, that this book would most likely be more beneficial to the aspiring or novice private investigator (for whom I would rate it 4 stars). In my humble opinion, an experienced investigator would realize less benefit from reading this title.

   Mr. McMahon has compiled a great deal of information and has covered the vast majority of topics, but this book really lacks depth (i.e. actual techniques/procedures). If you’re a novice looking for information (an overview) regarding the general aspects of private investigations, then this title might be worthy of your hard-earned money (although it is a little pricey for the casual reader). If you already have an understanding of the aforementioned information, then I would humbly suggest that you pass on this one.

   If you’re interested in information regarding the basic techniques/procedures of the private investigation profession, then I would highly recommend (emphasis added) “The Complete Idiot’s Guide To Private Investigation” by Steven Kerry Brown (ISBN: 0028643992). Brown’s work is also a must-have for anyone entering or attempting to enter the private investigation profession. Brown’s text is a less than a third of the price of McMahon’s title and contains much of the same information, while offering substantially more depth.

   As always, check with your local library or bookstore to see if you can read/review this or any title before deciding to make a purchase. This method has effectively allowed me to make the most of my investigative library budget.

   I hope you found this review helpful. (…)
3. T. Grant says:

   January 15, 2002 at 12:00 am

   I checked this book out of the library to use as a guide in setting up a PI agency. After one day I decided to just buy the book, despite the relatively high cost. Well worth the price. The sample forms and contracts are just what I was looking for. A great how-to book for people starting out in the industry!
4. Z. Becker says:

   January 12, 2002 at 12:00 am

   While this book projects a basic overview of the investigative profession, it lacks thorough treatment of techniques and issues. McMahon does deserve kudos for devoting a chapter to ethics. Unfortunately, like many other books in this category, the author indulges in a lot of superficial introductory information and glosses over sources. This book and Brandon Perron’s, are probably the most well thought-out books covering this field to date…but please, we implore you authors, to cut out the fluff and drive home more substance: tried and proven techniques, detailed (and updated) source listings (including databases and public records info) and more practical business advice. A conditional buy.
5. K. Farney says:

   March 30, 2001 at 12:00 am

   Mr McMahon was done a superb job in creating a practical handbook for PIs. His book should be the “manual” for those new to the field and those working towards a degree or certification related to Private Investigators. Although, the book is geared for the student or “newbie” PI, I found it to be an excellent refresher for experienced detectives. There are no war stories, this book is for educational purposes and has earned a spot in with my other reference manuals. Rory McMahon has obviously used his training and experience to create this manual. It is great to see a real PI giving something back to the industry.