An investigation does not necessarily stop at a national border. Business partners, individuals and assets may have connections to several European countries. DETIX carries out international investigations in Europe, combining its own operational work with cooperation through an established international investigator network. We support lawyers, companies and private clients.
Our own investigations and clear responsibility
Our office is in Dieburg near Darmstadt, Germany. DETIX carries out investigations itself and deploys its own operational teams. Experienced investigator partners from our international network are involved where needed for cross-border and local measures. DETIX takes operational responsibility for the investigative measures it undertakes, their delivery and their quality.
You agree the objective, scope and approach directly with DETIX. We plan the individual steps, carry out our own measures and coordinate additional local work around the shared objective. Cooperation extends our capabilities while preserving our own investigative role and responsibility to our clients.
Investigation services across national borders
International surveillance provides discreet documentation of relevant events on the ground. If a person may move to another country, operational planning, permitted measures and cooperation with local investigators need to be clarified in advance. Continuing an assignment across a border is not automatic.
Corporate investigations examine specific concerns, business relationships and commercial connections. Company and background checks can cross-check statements about entities, shareholdings and individuals. For international structures, we consider differences between registers and the evidential value of available documents.
Person and address tracing follows suitable leads concerning individuals being sought and current addresses. Name variations, previous places of residence and confirmed contacts help assess the information. A historical address does not establish someone’s present location.
OSINT and background research examines publicly accessible digital information. We cross-check sources, dates and identifying details, distinguishing leads from verifiable findings. Digital research can support the planning of enquiries on the ground.
Property, ownership and asset investigations examine leads relating to real estate, corporate holdings and other assets. We distinguish use, suspected connections and verifiable ownership or other relationships. Access to information and the evidence available differ between countries.
Assignments involving numerous European countries
DETIX can handle enquiries connected to numerous European countries, including Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, the Netherlands and Poland. These are examples of potential service areas, not a list of our own branches or permanently stationed teams.
The measures available depend on the country, the question, the starting information and the legal framework. For nationwide work in Germany, see Private Investigations in Germany. One established European service area is Mallorca, where three local investigator contacts complement our capabilities without DETIX operating its own office there. Measures at short notice remain subject to availability.
Clarifying country-specific requirements before work begins
Europe is not a single investigative jurisdiction. Before taking measures, we assess the applicable national requirements, data protection rules and any necessary authorisations or professional qualifications. A research method available in one country may be restricted or unavailable in another.
Where several countries are involved, we agree which information is needed, who will carry out each measure and how findings will be documented. Documents and personal information are processed for the assignment with regard to applicable data protection requirements. The use of findings in a particular proceeding should be discussed with your legal adviser.
From an initial lead to an agreed investigation
Explain the question, the countries involved and the facts already established. We assess appropriate steps, local operational options and the expected scope of work. Before you instruct us, we discuss scope, costs and documentation. New leads or an extension into further countries are agreed with you. The findings clearly distinguish established facts, unconfirmed leads and unresolved questions.
Questions about investigations in Europe
Does DETIX carry out international investigations itself?
Yes. DETIX carries out its own investigations and deploys its own operational teams. Experienced investigator partners from the international network complement local or cross-border measures where needed. DETIX retains operational responsibility for the investigative measures it undertakes.
Are investigations possible in every European country?
A blanket assurance would not be appropriate. We assess the assignment and the options available in each country. The countries listed are examples; scope and feasibility are clarified in advance.
Can surveillance continue across a national border?
This depends on the operational circumstances, national requirements and any authorisations needed. A possible change of country must be considered when planning. Unrestricted continuation is not promised.
Which documents help with an international enquiry?
A clear question, the countries involved, a chronology and documented details about people, companies or addresses are useful. First tell us which documents you hold. We agree what is needed for the initial assessment.
How are costs and findings agreed?
The scope of work depends on the countries, measures, duration, personnel, travel and expenses involved. We discuss estimated costs and documentation before you instruct us. Additional steps are agreed with you; we do not guarantee a particular outcome.
Discuss your European investigation in confidence
Do you need help with cross-border surveillance, person tracing or a business matter? Tell us your objective, the countries involved and any deadlines. We will discuss appropriate next steps with you.
DETIX – Zuckerstraße 5, 64807 Dieburg, Germany. Personal meetings by appointment.