Is everything I share with you completely confidential?

Absolutely. Every consultation, case detail, and piece of information you share is held in the strictest confidence. Watson PI operates under the same confidentiality protocols used in LAPD Internal Affairs investigations. Your privacy is non-negotiable and legally protected.

How much does a private investigation cost?

Watson PI charges competitive hourly and project-based rates with no hidden fees. Rates vary based on investigation type, duration, and complexity. Surveillance investigations in the Austin market typically range from $550–$1,300 per day. Background investigations and skip tracing are often quoted as flat-fee projects. Every engagement begins with a free consultation where David will outline exactly what your investigation requires and provide a transparent cost estimate. Call 512-801-9754 to discuss your case.

Are your investigations legal? Will the evidence hold up in court?

Yes, on both counts. Every investigation is conducted in full compliance with Texas law and the Texas Rules of Evidence. David Watson's 19 years with the LAPD means he understands exactly what it takes to produce court-admissible evidence. We have never had evidence excluded due to improper collection.

How long does an investigation typically take?

It depends on the type of investigation. A surveillance case may yield results within 2–5 days. A complex background investigation or missing persons case may take 1–3 weeks. We provide realistic timelines during your consultation and keep you informed throughout the process.

Do you serve areas outside of Austin?

Yes. Watson PI serves all of Central Texas, including Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Kyle, Buda, San Marcos, Bastrop, and surrounding counties. We also conduct investigations statewide and can coordinate nationwide investigations through our professional network.

What is the difference between Watson PI and other Austin investigators?

David Watson is one of the very few Texas private investigators with 19 years of LAPD experience at the Metro Division, Criminal Intelligence, and Internal Affairs levels. Additionally, Watson PI holds both Travis County Approved Vendor and State Farm Approved Vendor designations, institutional approvals that require rigorous vetting and that most local investigators do not hold.

Can you help with a divorce or child custody case?

Yes. These are among our most frequently requested services. We conduct discreet surveillance, document parental fitness and custody violations, and produce reports that meet the evidentiary standards of Texas family courts. We work closely with family law attorneys throughout Central Texas.

What happens during the free consultation?

During your free, confidential consultation, David will listen to your situation, ask clarifying questions, explain what type of investigation is appropriate, outline the process, and provide a transparent cost estimate. There is no pressure and no obligation. You can call, text, or submit the contact form on this page.

Do you work with attorneys?

Extensively. Watson PI is a preferred investigator for numerous Austin-area criminal defense, family law, and civil litigation attorneys. We understand attorney-client privilege, work within legal deadlines, and produce reports formatted for legal proceedings. Travis County Approved Vendor status reflects our standing in the legal community.

What is a TSCM bug sweep and do I need one?

Technical Surveillance Countermeasures (TSCM) is the professional detection of hidden cameras, listening devices, and GPS trackers in homes, offices, and vehicles. If you suspect you are being monitored by a spouse, business partner, or other party, a bug sweep can confirm or rule out surveillance. We use professional-grade detection equipment.

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Home Resources Attorney Resource CenterRetaining a PI for Criminal Defense in Texas

Attorney Resource Center

Retaining a PI for Criminal Defense in Texas

LAPD-trained. Defense-focused. Evidence that challenges the prosecution's narrative.

Free Confidential Consultation Call 512-801-9754

19-Year LAPD Veteran

Travis County Approved Vendor

TX License A11319

100% Confidential

Criminal defense PI work requires a different skill set than civil investigation, an understanding of criminal procedure, evidence rules, and the prosecution's investigative methods. David Watson's 19 years of LAPD experience provides a unique perspective: he understands how law enforcement builds cases, which means he knows where the weaknesses are.

Key Points

Witness location and background investigation

Alibi verification and documentation

Crime scene documentation and reconstruction

Law enforcement report and evidence analysis

Juror background research (where permitted)

Expert witness identification and vetting

Surveillance of prosecution witnesses

LAPD-trained investigator with defense case experience

Witness Location and Investigation

Locating witnesses, especially those who are avoiding contact, is one of the most common PI tasks in criminal defense. Watson PI uses legal database searches, public records, and investigative techniques to locate witnesses, conduct background investigations, and document witness statements in a format suitable for use at trial.

Alibi Verification

Alibi verification requires more than a witness statement, it requires documented corroboration. Watson PI investigates alibi claims by locating and interviewing witnesses, obtaining surveillance footage from businesses and residences, reviewing cell tower and GPS data, and documenting physical evidence that supports or refutes the alibi.

Crime Scene Documentation

When law enforcement crime scene documentation is incomplete or inconsistent with the defense theory, Watson PI can conduct independent crime scene documentation, photographing the scene, measuring distances, identifying inconsistencies in the prosecution's evidence, and locating physical evidence that was missed or ignored.

Law Enforcement Experience as a Defense Asset

David Watson's 19 years of LAPD experience is a significant asset in criminal defense work. He understands standard law enforcement investigative procedures, knows what documentation should exist in a properly conducted investigation, and can identify departures from standard procedure that may support a defense motion or cross-examination strategy.

Key Takeaways

Watson PI's LAPD experience provides unique insight into how law enforcement builds cases, and where the weaknesses are.
Witness location, alibi verification, and crime scene documentation are core criminal defense PI services.
All evidence is documented to Texas Rules of Evidence standards for use at trial.
Watson PI is available for deposition and trial testimony in Texas criminal courts.
Retain Watson PI through your firm to maximize work product protection.