So Cal's Best Private Investigators
With 50 years of experience, Thomas G. Martin and his team of licensed former Federal agents have a proven track record of delivering results to our clients. Martin PI is the best private investigator in So Cal and has been featured in the Los Angeles Times and Wall Street Journal and boasts the official seals of the FBI, DEA, Secret Service, and IRS, a privilege granted to very few.
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Fill out the form below and you will receive expert advice from real private investigators. Ready and waiting to serve you 24/7/365. Call now for immediate assistance 24/7.
Our Three Investigative Pillars
First is Your Privacy.
When you call in, it is held with confidence. 50+ years, and still going strong, share your thoughts and once done, all information ultimately gathered is shared with you and then destroyed.
Second is our commitment.
You need professional assistance! Read our testimonials. You will know why law firms, Fortune 500 businesses and concerned people like you, keep coming back.
Third is your peace of mind.
"Be assured, your investigation will be supervised and completed by former agents of the FBI, DEA, IRS, or Secret Service.” - Thomas G. Martin, President
Over 100+ 5-Star Reviews.
The best private investigators in So Cal.

Talk to Expert Agents Today
Our investigators are Former Federal agents. Our network comprises of private investigators that are former DEA, FBI, IRS, and Secret Service agents.
We are friendly and approachable and always have your best interest in mind. Our testimonials speak for themselves.
Why Choose a Local PI?
First, we offer a free consultation. We know Southern California better than anyone and have been working these streets since 1972. And we care. Our team are professionals and we keep it that way. Everything is kept confidential and our courteous and prompt attention is second-to-none.
Ready? Call (888) 900-9117. We look forward to helping you.
Private Investigation Services
Private Investigation Services
We have made it easy for you to find the topic you need reviewing. Here are some popular searches.
- Finding a private investigator near you.
- Risks of hiring a private investigator.
- How much does a private investigator cost.
- Hiring a private investigator.
Background Searches
Background Searches
As former federal agents, here are some key searches to assist you.
- Why hire MartinPI to complete background searches.
- Can you do a background check with a Drivers License?
- Criminal background check and what to expect.
- Premarital background check.
- How to get a background check on yourself.
Asset Searches
Asset Searches
All work is supervised and completed by former agents of the FBI, DEA, IRS or Secret Service.
- Asset Search. What does it entail.
- Using a Private Investigator to do an asset search.
- Asset Searches for Attorneys.
- Bank Account Searches.
- Corporate Asset search.
How To Find A Missing Person
How To Find A Missing Person
Needing to find a person, a long lost friend, an adult family member? A private investigator can help you find your missing person.
- Locate Friends and Family.
- Locate Missing Persons.
- Locate Adult Children.
- Locate Runaways.
Bug Sweep Detection Services
Bug Sweep Detection Services
Bug sweep detection services. Think your car or home is bugged?
Someone is knowing more than they should?
You may have been bugged! Don’t take chances and have “professionals” do a 100% guaranteed check for you.
- Bug Sweep Services Near me.
- Vehicle Bug Sweeps.
- Corporate Office Bug Sweeps.
Pre-Employment Screening
Pre-Employment Screening
Pre-employment background checks are done by former federal agents.
These days, there are a number of companies and web sites that perform background checks.
More often than not these services offer results of mixed quality by using dated sources that provide only pieces of information, with no quality assurance or professional review.
Corporate Investigation Services
Corporate Investigation Services
Our agency has worked with Fortune 500 Companies and the small business community. Through the process of interview and interrogation, we determine who is stealing time, money and product.
Here are topics to assist in your search.
- Hiring a corporate private investigator.
- Corporate bug sweeps.
Surveillance Services
Surveillance Services
Your call and our work are totally private. All surveillance reports will be accompanied by photographs and video.
If you believe someone, i.e. a spouse, a business owner, or whomever is not being truthful, contact us.
Here are some popular searches.
- How do I catch my cheating spouse.
- Workers compensation surveillance.
- How to sweep for surveillance bugs.
Martin PI operates throughout the United States and foreign countries. Office headquarters are located in Newport Beach, CA.

World-Class Private Investigator THOMAS MARTIN
Meet Thomas Martin, the driving force behind Martin Investigative Services. With a wealth of experience as a private investigator, Thomas Martin leads our team with a commitment to professionalism and personalized service.
However, Thomas Martin believes in the importance of a professional setting. That's why Martin Investigative Services operates from a dedicated office, ensuring that we're always accessible and ready to meet with you in person.
From your first conversation with us, Thomas Martin ensures that you receive a clear estimate, and he personally guarantees that all consultations are free and confidential.
Under his guidance, our team provides comprehensive investigative services, tailored to meet your specific needs. He understands that every case is unique and is dedicated to delivering solutions that are as individual as your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are private investigators worth it?
Whether private investigators are worth it depends on your specific needs and the complexity of your case. They can provide valuable services and expertise, but it's essential to consider the cost, legal implications, and potential outcomes before hiring one.
Can a PI track your phone?
Yes, a private investigator (PI) can track your phone with proper legal authorization. They often use GPS tracking devices or software to monitor the location of a phone, but they must adhere to privacy laws and obtain consent or a court order for such surveillance to be legal.
Can a private investigator bug your phone?
Legally, a private investigator cannot bug your phone without your consent or a court order. Wiretapping and electronic eavesdropping without authorization are illegal and can result in criminal charges and civil lawsuits against the PI.
How do I know if a PI is licensed?
To verify if a private investigator is licensed, check with your state's licensing board or agency responsible for regulating PIs. You can typically search for their license status online using their name or license number.
What are the ethics of a private investigator?
Private investigators adhere to a strict code of ethics, including respecting privacy, ensuring confidentiality, and maintaining honesty. They must operate within legal boundaries, avoid conflicts of interest, and provide accurate information to clients. Ethical PIs also prioritize the well-being of individuals involved in investigations and uphold professional standards in their conduct.
Is it legal to hire a private investigator in California?
Yes, it is legal to hire a private investigator in California, but the PI must be licensed by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. Ensure they have a valid license and follow state regulations.
Can a private investigator bug your house?
Hiring a private investigator (PI) for pre-employment screening can provide thorough and discreet background checks, going beyond basic employer checks to uncover details like past behaviors or undisclosed information. Consider the cost versus the depth of investigation needed. PIs may access information not readily available through standard channels, navigating privacy laws to legally obtain critical information.
What is the purpose of a private investigator?
The purpose of a private investigator is to gather information and evidence for clients. They conduct investigations for legal, personal, or business matters, including background checks, surveillance, locating missing persons, and investigating various types of allegations.
Is it risky to be a private investigator?
Being a private investigator can be risky, as the job often involves dealing with sensitive information, potentially dangerous situations, and sometimes confrontational individuals. Investigators must be cautious, well-prepared, and aware of their surroundings to minimize risks.
Can a civilian hire a private investigator?
Yes, a civilian can hire a private investigator for various personal or business-related investigations, such as background checks, surveillance, locating missing persons, and gathering evidence for legal cases.
Why would you use a private investigator?
You might use a private investigator for background checks, gathering legal evidence, investigating infidelity, locating missing persons, conducting surveillance, and verifying information for personal or business purposes.
Why would you hire a private investigator?
People hire private investigators for various reasons, including gathering evidence for legal cases, conducting background checks, locating missing persons, investigating infidelity, and conducting surveillance for personal or business matters.
What is the best way to locate someone?
The best way to locate someone is to hire a private investigator who specializes in locating missing persons. They use various methods, including public records searches, surveillance, and online databases, to find individuals.
How can I locate someone?
To locate someone, you can start by searching online databases, social media, and public records. If these methods are unsuccessful, consider hiring a private investigator who has access to specialized databases and resources.
Martin PI Operates
Throughout the United States and Foreign Countries
We can have a team ready in 2 days.
Are you ready?
Our network is composed of private investigators that are former DEA, FBI, IRS, and Secret Service agents.
We respect your time and thank you for stopping by. Please look around and learn about our services. Should you need help today, simply press the button below.
Get an Expert Consultation
Fill out the form below and you will receive expert advice from real private investigators. Ready and waiting to serve you 24/7/365. Call now for immediate assistance 24/7.





