Some of the facts an attorney needs will not be found in the materials already in the case file. O’Neal Investigations provides investigative support for law firms and private clients when a matter requires additional fact development, witness work or evidence documentation.
We serve Jacksonville, St. Augustine, St. Johns County and surrounding Northeast Florida communities. Keith O’Neal personally conducts or oversees each assignment, drawing on more than 35 years of investigative and law enforcement experience.
Start with the factual question
Effective investigative work begins by identifying what counsel needs to establish, what is already known and what information may still be available. We discuss the purpose, deadlines, authorized methods and budget before developing a plan.
Early involvement does not always mean immediate fieldwork. Sometimes the first step is reviewing records, identifying gaps or deciding when an observation or interview would be most useful.
Investigative assistance for legal matters
Depending on the assignment, litigation support may include:
- Witness identification, location and interviews
- Scene visits and photographic documentation
- Public-record and background research
- Identifying possible sources of photographs or video
- Developing factual timelines and comparing records
- Surveillance when relevant to a defined case question
- Organizing investigative findings for counsel’s review
We report facts objectively, including information that may not support the initial theory of the case. A clear account of what remains unresolved is as important as a confirmed finding.
Evidence that may be time-sensitive
Physical conditions can change, businesses may overwrite video and witnesses may become harder to locate. Prompt investigative planning can help counsel identify sources of information before opportunities are lost.
Any requests, contacts or evidence-preservation assistance must remain within the authorized scope. Counsel directs legal strategy and determines the appropriate legal steps.
Documentation prepared for professional review
Our work emphasizes clear communication, organized reports and supporting documentation. Findings should make it possible to understand the source of the information, the chronology and any limitations affecting its interpretation.
We distinguish information found in records from independently confirmed facts and unresolved leads. Keith can discuss testimony relating to investigative work when needed. The admissibility and legal significance of evidence are matters for counsel and the court.
Support for family law and other civil matters
Our services include alimony and cohabitation investigations, witness work, surveillance and background research. Read when an attorney should recommend a private investigator for examples of assignments where investigative assistance may be useful.
Discuss your assignment
Call 904-703-8825 or request a free confidential consultation. Tell us the factual issue, relevant deadlines and what information is already available. View our investigative services or learn about Keith O’Neal.