investigator

An investigator is a person who conducts investigations to uncover facts, collect evidence, and determine what occurred in a matter of interest. Investigations can be criminal, civil, corporate, scientific, or journalistic. The term encompasses professionals in law enforcement, private practice, journalism, academia, and industry.

In law enforcement and the judiciary, investigators such as detectives assemble evidence, interview witnesses, collect forensic material, perform surveillance within legal bounds, and prepare reports and case files for prosecution or defense. In corporate or organizational contexts, investigators may conduct internal audits, fraud investigations, workplace investigations, or compliance reviews to identify misconduct or risks.

Skills typical of investigators include critical thinking, analytical reasoning, meticulous record-keeping, interview techniques, and ethical judgment. Training varies by field; police detectives undergo law enforcement training and field assignments, while corporate or private investigators may hold degrees in criminology, journalism, or science and pursue professional certifications.

Common methods and tools include document review, data analysis, digital forensics, field observations, and maintaining chain of custody for evidence. Investigations must comply with legal standards and protect rights, confidentiality, and due process, with oversight by authorities or organizational ethics policies.

Outcomes of investigations can be written reports, testimonies in court, disciplinary actions, policy changes, or remediation of risks. The role often requires discretion, objectivity, and independence to uncover facts and present a reasoned conclusion.