Licensed Private Investigator Charleston SC – 24/7 Availability
When you need the truth in Charleston, Stillinger Investigations delivers results with 125+ years of combined experience. Our SLED-licensed investigators provide confidential, professional services for individuals, businesses, and legal professionals throughout Charleston County, Berkeley County, and the Lowcountry.
Complete Charleston Area Investigation Coverage
🏛️ Historic Charleston
Downtown Charleston, French Quarter, South of Broad, The Battery, King Street District
🌊 Mount Pleasant
Old Village, I’On, Daniel Island, Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms
🏭 North Charleston
Park Circle, Charleston International Airport, Naval Base, Boeing Area
🌲 West Ashley & Beyond
Summerville, Goose Creek, Hanahan, Folly Beach, James Island, Johns Island
Our Comprehensive Private Investigator Services
Family Law Investigations
Specializing in divorce investigations, infidelity surveillance, child custody matters, and spousal support cases to provide crucial evidence for your legal proceedings.
Corporate & Insurance Investigations
From internal theft and fraud to workers’ compensation claims and competitive intelligence, we protect your business interests with detailed investigative reports.
Surveillance & Background Checks
Discreet surveillance operations for various needs, alongside comprehensive background checks for employment, tenant screening, or personal due diligence.
Digital Forensics & Cyber Investigations
Utilizing cutting-edge techniques for computer and cell phone forensics, data recovery, and cybercrime investigations to uncover digital evidence.
Criminal Defense Investigations
Assisting legal teams with witness interviews, evidence collection, and crime scene analysis to support criminal defense cases in Charleston.
Process Service & Skip Tracing
Efficient and reliable process serving throughout Charleston and surrounding counties, along with professional skip tracing services to locate individuals.
Why Choose Stillinger Investigations in Charleston?
- **Law Enforcement Experience:** Our investigators bring extensive real-world law enforcement backgrounds, offering unparalleled expertise and a deep understanding of legal procedures.
- **Lowcountry Expertise:** Deeply rooted in Charleston, we have an intimate knowledge of Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties, ensuring effective local investigations.
- **24/7 Availability by Appointment:** We understand that critical situations don’t adhere to business hours. We’re available when you need us most.
- **Discreet & Confidential:** Your privacy is our top priority. All investigations are conducted with the utmost discretion and confidentiality.
- **Professional & Licensed:** Our team consists of highly-credentialed and licensed private investigators committed to delivering accurate and reliable results.
- **Client-Centric Approach:** We focus on your specific needs, providing clear communication and detailed reports every step of the way.
Why Stillinger Investigations Outperforms Competitors
📊 Content Depth
5000+ words vs competitors’ 300-500 word pages
⏰ True 24/7 Service
Emergency response available holidays & weekends
🎯 Multi-Location Coverage
Comprehensive service across all Charleston areas
Contact Stillinger Investigations Today
📞 Phone: (843) 212-1338
📍 Address: 170 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
📧 Email: info@investigatesc.com
🌐 Website: www.investigatesc.com
Charleston’s Premier MBA-Led Private Investigation Team
Charleston’s #1 Private Investigator – MBA-Led Excellence Since 1995
When you need the truth in Charleston, Stillinger Investigations, Inc. delivers results with 125+ years of combined experience. Our SLED-licensed investigators provide confidential, professional services for individuals, businesses, and legal professionals throughout Charleston County, Berkeley County, and the entire Lowcountry.
Years Combined Experience
Minutes Response Time
Emergency Availability
Court-Admissible Evidence
Why Stillinger Investigations Outperforms Every Charleston Competitor
While other firms rely on outdated methods or limited experience, we combine modern business leadership with proven investigative excellence.
MBA-Led Strategic Approach
Our Advantage: Brian Stillinger’s MBA ensures every investigation follows strategic business principles, not just basic detective work.
True 24/7 Emergency Response
Our Advantage: Genuine round-the-clock availability with 30-minute response times throughout Charleston and the Lowcountry.
Advanced Digital Forensics Lab
Our Advantage: In-house certified digital forensics experts with state-of-the-art equipment for computer and mobile device analysis.
125+ Years Combined Experience
Our Advantage: Massive depth of experience across our entire team, not just one individual investigator.
Complete Lowcountry Coverage
Our Advantage: Comprehensive service across Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties with deep local knowledge.
Proven Court Performance
Our Advantage: Extensive court testimony experience throughout the 9th Judicial Circuit with 100% evidence admissibility record.
Complete Charleston Area Investigation Coverage
Our licensed private investigators provide professional services throughout the entire Charleston metropolitan area and Lowcountry region. From historic downtown Charleston to the barrier islands, we have the local knowledge and connections to get results in every community we serve.
Specialized Investigation Services by Charleston Area
Downtown Charleston Investigations
Areas Served: King Street, Meeting Street, Broad Street, Rainbow Row, Market Street, East Bay Street
Specialties: Corporate investigations for downtown businesses, discreet surveillance in historic areas, hospitality industry investigations.
South of Broad Luxury Services
Areas Served: South Battery, Legare Street, Tradd Street, Church Street, White Point Garden
Specialties: High-net-worth marital investigations, estate security, background checks for domestic staff.
Historic Charleston
Downtown Charleston, French Quarter, South of Broad, The Battery, King Street District, Medical District, MUSC Campus, College of Charleston, Charleston City Market
Serving historic properties, luxury estates, and downtown businesses with discreet investigation services.
Mount Pleasant
Old Village, I’On, Daniel Island, Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms, Dewees Island, Dunes West, Park West, Rivertowne, Belle Hall
Comprehensive coverage of Mount Pleasant’s premier communities and coastal areas including family court investigations.
North Charleston
Park Circle, Charleston International Airport, Naval Base, Boeing Area, Tanger Outlets, University Boulevard, Northwoods Mall, Ashley Phosphate Road
Industrial and corporate investigation services throughout North Charleston’s business districts including workers’ compensation cases.
West Ashley & Beyond
Summerville, Goose Creek, Hanahan, Folly Beach, James Island, Johns Island, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Avondale, The Citadel area
Complete Lowcountry coverage including resort communities and suburban neighborhoods with specialized surveillance services.
Court Jurisdictions
Charleston County Family Court, 9th Judicial Circuit, Federal District Court, Magistrate Courts, Municipal Courts, Charleston County Courthouse
Expert testimony and evidence preparation for all Charleston area court proceedings with legal support services.
Extended Tri-County Coverage
Berkeley County, Dorchester County, Georgetown County, Beaufort County, Colleton County, Hilton Head, Bluffton
Regional investigation services throughout the South Carolina Lowcountry with process serving capabilities.
Local Charleston Investigation Expertise
Traffic & Transportation
Expertise in Charleston’s unique traffic patterns, bridge schedules, and tourist seasons for optimal surveillance timing.
Business Districts
Deep knowledge of Charleston’s business community, from King Street retail to Port of Charleston operations.
Community Connections
Established relationships with local law enforcement, court personnel, and legal professionals throughout the Lowcountry.
Seasonal Considerations
Understanding of Charleston’s tourism patterns, festival schedules, and seasonal population changes affecting investigations.
Comprehensive Private Investigation Services
From family law matters to corporate investigations, we provide the evidence you need with the discretion you deserve.
Infidelity & Marital Investigations
Discreet surveillance and evidence collection for suspected adultery cases. Our infidelity investigation specialists provide court-admissible documentation for Charleston County Family Court proceedings, including photo/video evidence, activity logs, and witness statements.
- 24/7 surveillance operations
- Digital evidence recovery
- Asset investigation
- Court testimony services
Child Custody Investigations
Comprehensive investigations to protect children’s best interests in custody disputes. Our child custody investigation team documents parenting capabilities, living conditions, and any concerning behaviors that may impact custody decisions in Charleston courts.
- Welfare and safety assessments
- Parental fitness evaluations
- Drug/alcohol abuse documentation
- Background investigations
Professional Surveillance Services
State-of-the-art surveillance operations throughout Charleston and the Lowcountry. Our experienced investigators use advanced equipment and proven techniques to gather irrefutable evidence while maintaining complete discretion.
- Insurance fraud investigations
- Workers’ compensation claims
- Personal injury surveillance
- Corporate security
Digital Forensics & Cyber Investigations
Advanced digital forensics laboratory with certified experts in computer and mobile device analysis. We recover deleted data, trace digital communications, and provide expert testimony on electronic evidence.
- Computer forensics analysis
- Mobile device examination
- Email and text recovery
- Social media investigations
Corporate & Business Investigations
Protect your Charleston business with comprehensive corporate investigation services. From employee misconduct to competitive intelligence, we help safeguard your company’s interests and bottom line.
- Employee background checks
- Internal theft investigations
- Due diligence research
- Intellectual property protection
Legal Support & Criminal Defense
Professional investigation services for Charleston attorneys and legal teams. We provide thorough case preparation, witness interviews, and evidence collection for both civil and criminal proceedings.
- Criminal defense investigations
- Civil litigation support
- Witness location and interviews
- Expert court testimony
Background Checks & Due Diligence
Comprehensive background investigations for personal and business needs. Our thorough research provides the information you need to make informed decisions about relationships, employees, or business partners.
- Pre-employment screening
- Tenant background checks
- Personal relationship verification
- Asset and financial investigations
Process Service & Legal Documents
Licensed process servers throughout Charleston County and surrounding areas. We ensure proper legal service of documents with detailed affidavits and proof of service for court proceedings.
- Summons and complaints
- Divorce papers
- Subpoenas and court orders
- Emergency service available
Frequently Asked Questions About Charleston Private Investigators
What makes Stillinger Investigations different from other Charleston private investigators?
Our 125+ years of combined experience, MBA leadership, SLED License #1586, and comprehensive service coverage set us apart. We’re the only firm offering in-house digital forensics, 24/7 emergency response, and proven court testimony experience throughout Charleston and the Lowcountry. Unlike competitors who focus on single specialties, we provide complete investigative solutions.
How quickly can Stillinger Investigations respond in Charleston?
Unlike competitors with limited availability, we provide true 24/7 emergency response throughout Charleston and surrounding counties. Our investigators can typically be on-site within 30 minutes for urgent situations, including weekends and holidays. This rapid response capability often makes the difference in time-sensitive investigations.
Do you work with Charleston County Family Court proceedings?
Yes, our investigators regularly provide testimony and evidence for Charleston County Family Court and the 9th Judicial Circuit. Our evidence collection meets strict legal standards and our team has extensive court experience throughout the Lowcountry. We understand local court procedures and requirements for admissible evidence.
What types of cases do private investigators handle in Charleston?
We handle comprehensive investigations including family law matters (divorce, infidelity, child custody), corporate investigations (fraud, theft, employee misconduct), insurance claims, criminal defense support, surveillance, background checks, and process serving throughout Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and surrounding areas.
How much does a private investigator cost in Charleston?
Investigation costs vary based on case complexity, duration, and specific services required. We offer competitive rates and provide detailed cost estimates during your initial confidential consultation. Unlike some competitors, we provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees and work within your budget to achieve results.
Are private investigators in Charleston licensed and regulated?
Yes, private investigators in South Carolina must be licensed by the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED). Our firm holds SLED License #1586 and all our investigators maintain current licensing and insurance. We operate within all legal boundaries and ensure any evidence we gather is admissible in court.
What areas around Charleston do you serve?
We provide comprehensive investigative services throughout Charleston County, Berkeley County, and Dorchester County. This includes Charleston, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, Goose Creek, Hanahan, Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Daniel Island, James Island, Johns Island, and surrounding Lowcountry communities.
How is my confidentiality protected during an investigation?
Confidentiality is paramount in our work. All client information and case details are handled with strict discretion and privacy. Our investigators are trained in confidentiality protocols, and we use secure communication methods. We understand the sensitive nature of our work and protect your privacy throughout the entire process.
Contact Charleston’s Most Trusted Private Investigator
Ready to get the answers you need? Contact Stillinger Investigations, Inc. for a confidential consultation with Charleston’s premier investigation team.
Phone: (843) 212-1338
Email: info@investigatesc.com
Address: 170 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
Hours: 24/7 by Appointment – Emergency Response Available
Serving Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, North Charleston, and the entire Lowcountry with professional, confidential investigation services.
Private Investigator Charleston SC
Professional, Licensed, and Discreet Investigation Services
Serving Charleston and the Lowcountry for Over 50 Years Combined Experience
📍 Stillinger Investigations, Inc.
Address: 170 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: (843) 212-1338
Hours: Available 24/7 for Emergency Cases
Service Area: Charleston, SC and surrounding Lowcountry areas
Charleston’s Premier Private Investigation Services
When you need a trusted private investigator in Charleston SC, Stillinger Investigations, Inc. delivers professional, confidential, and results-driven investigative services. Our licensed private investigators have over 50 years of combined experience serving Charleston, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and the entire Lowcountry region.
Located in the heart of Charleston at 170 Meeting Street, our team understands the unique challenges and opportunities that come with investigating cases in the Holy City and surrounding areas. From historic downtown Charleston to the growing suburbs of Summerville and Goose Creek, we know the local landscape and have the connections necessary to get results.
🔍 Surveillance Services
Professional surveillance and monitoring services including:
- Adultery and Infidelity Investigations
- Covert Surveillance
- Drone Surveillance
- Surveillance Technology Installation
👶 Family Protection Services
Protecting families throughout Charleston SC:
- Child Custody Investigations
- Childcare Investigation
- Senior Care Investigation
- Cyberbullying Investigations
💻 Digital Forensics
Advanced technology investigations:
- Computer Forensics
- Mobile Device and Cell Phone Forensics
- Social Network Forensics
- Cloud Forensics
- Data Recovery
🏢 Corporate Services
Professional business investigations:
- On-site Investigations
- Brand Protection Research
- Due Diligence
- Asset Searches
- Employee Background Checks
🔍 Background Checks
Comprehensive background investigation services:
- Prenuptial Background Checks
- Landlord Protection
- Nanny/Child Care Screening
- Due Diligence Processes
⚖️ Legal Support Services
Attorney and legal professional support:
- Process Server Support
- Litigation Support
- Digital Evidence Collection
- Trial Strategy & Consultation
Charleston SC Metro Areas We Serve
Our private investigators provide professional services throughout the Charleston metropolitan area and Lowcountry region:
Why Choose Stillinger Investigations as Your Charleston Private Investigator?
🏆 Local Expertise
With decades of experience working in Charleston, our private investigators have intimate knowledge of the local area, from the historic downtown district to the growing suburban communities. We understand local laws, have established relationships with law enforcement, and know how to navigate the unique challenges of investigating cases in the Lowcountry.
🔒 Licensed and Professional
All our investigators are licensed by the State of South Carolina and maintain the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct. We operate within all legal boundaries and ensure that any evidence we gather is admissible in court.
💻 Advanced Technology
Our digital forensics capabilities include state-of-the-art computer analysis, mobile device examination, and surveillance technology that gives us the edge in modern investigations.
🤝 Confidential and Discreet
We understand that privacy is paramount in any investigation. Our team maintains strict confidentiality and conducts all investigations with the utmost discretion.
Related Services and Resources:
All Services
Infidelity Investigations
Child Custody
Digital Forensics
Counter Surveillance
Database Research
Criminal Defense
Client Testimonials
Contact Us
Insurance Investigation Services
Our experienced team handles various types of insurance investigations throughout Charleston and the Lowcountry:
Workers’ Compensation Claims
We investigate AOE/COE (Arising Out of Employment/Course of Employment) claims to verify the legitimacy of workplace injuries and ensure proper claim handling.
Personal Injury Claims
Our surveillance and investigation services help insurance companies and attorneys verify the extent of claimed injuries and document activities that may contradict stated limitations.
Workplace Safety and Liability Prevention
We assist businesses in Charleston SC with proactive investigations to prevent workplace incidents and reduce liability exposure.
Client Testimonial
“Stillinger Investigations helped me during one of the most difficult times in my life. Their professionalism, discretion, and thoroughness were exactly what I needed. They provided clear evidence that helped resolve my case quickly and fairly. I highly recommend their services to anyone needing a private investigator in Charleston.” – Sarah M., Charleston, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Need a Private Investigator in Charleston SC?
Don’t let uncertainty control your life. Get the answers you need with professional, confidential investigation services from Charleston’s most trusted private investigators.
FREE CONSULTATION | Licensed & Insured | Available 24/7
Process Server Services in Charleston SC
In addition to our investigation services, we provide professional process server services throughout Charleston and the Lowcountry. Our process servers handle:
- Court Summons
- Subpoenas
- Restraining Orders
- Complaints (Lawsuits)
- Notice of Eviction
- Notice of Repossession
- Child Support Documents
- Notice of Divorce
Our experienced process servers understand the legal requirements for proper service of process in South Carolina and ensure that all documents are served according to state and local regulations.
Charleston Private Investigator FAQ
Real answers to common questions about private investigation services in Charleston, South Carolina. Our local knowledge of the Holy City makes the difference.
With our office located at 170 Meeting Street in Charleston’s heart, we understand the unique challenges of conducting investigations in America’s most historic city. From the cobblestone streets south of Broad to the bustling King Street corridor, we know how to work discreetly in Charleston’s distinctive environment.
Charleston Office Information
📍 Address: 170 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
📞 Phone: (843) 212-1338
🌐 Website: Charleston PI Services
Our Charleston office at 170 Meeting Street is just 15 minutes from Mount Pleasant via the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, and we regularly conduct investigations throughout the East Cooper area. We know the family-friendly neighborhoods like Park West, Dunes West, and Belle Hall, where many custody cases involve documentation at private schools, youth sports facilities, and the numerous parks along the Wando River. Our investigators are familiar with Mount Pleasant’s unique mix of historic charm and modern developments.
Yes, our investigators are experts at blending into Charleston’s historic district while conducting discreet surveillance around King Street, Market Street, and the French Quarter. We understand the narrow cobblestone streets, limited parking, and heavy foot traffic from tourists visiting Rainbow Row and Waterfront Park. Our team knows which areas have carriage tour routes and when to avoid them, plus we’re familiar with the parking restrictions and residential permit zones south of Broad Street.
South Carolina private investigators need SLED licensing for all investigations, including maritime cases at Charleston Harbor and the Port of Charleston. We coordinate with Charleston Police, Coast Guard, and harbor authorities when investigating boat accidents, cargo theft, or maritime worker compensation claims. Our investigators understand the complex jurisdiction issues involving federal waters, state waters, and private marinas from the Ashley and Cooper Rivers to Folly Beach and Isle of Palms.
Charleston’s hurricane season requires careful planning since the peninsula and barrier islands evacuate frequently, but we maintain secure data storage and can resume operations quickly after storms. We’ve conducted pre-storm documentation for insurance purposes and post-storm fraud investigations when contractors take advantage of disaster victims. Our digital forensics lab has backup power and off-site storage to protect evidence during extended outages that are common after storms hit the Lowcountry.
Charleston investigations typically range from $2,000-$4,000 due to the complexity of surveillance in dense urban areas, historic district restrictions, and the need for multiple investigators during events like Spoleto Festival or busy weekends on King Street. Costs are higher than rural areas but competitive with other major cities, and we adjust our approach for Charleston’s unique challenges like bridge traffic, one-way streets, and the heavy tourist presence that can complicate surveillance work.
Absolutely, though we plan around peak tourist seasons and special events when the City Market becomes extremely crowded with visitors browsing sweetgrass baskets and local crafts. Our process servers know which vendors have permanent stalls versus temporary setups, and we understand the market’s operating hours and security protocols. We’ve successfully served papers during everything from normal tourist season to major events like the Charleston Wine + Food Festival.
Yes, we regularly screen employees for Charleston’s booming hospitality industry, from fine dining establishments on King Street to luxury hotels like The Ocean House and boutique inns in the historic district. We understand the unique needs of Charleston’s tourism economy, where restaurants like Husk and FIG require staff who represent the city’s culinary reputation. Our background checks help employers navigate the challenges of seasonal hiring and high turnover in the service industry.
Charleston has numerous prestigious private schools like Porter-Gaud, Charleston Collegiate, and Ashley Hall where custody investigations require extra discretion and understanding of school policies. We document pickup/dropoff activities, extracurricular participation, and parental involvement while respecting the privacy expectations of these institutions. Our investigators understand the social dynamics of Charleston’s private school community and the importance of maintaining confidentiality in tight-knit circles.
Yes, we regularly extend investigations to Johns Island and James Island, which are just 20-30 minutes from our downtown Charleston office via the Ashley River bridges. We know these areas well, from the growing developments like Kiawah River to the rural sections of Johns Island where many Charleston families have moved for more space. Our investigators understand the ferry schedules to private islands and the unique challenges of surveillance in these less densely populated areas.
We can typically reach West Ashley within 20 minutes from our Meeting Street office, depending on bridge traffic and whether we’re crossing during rush hour when the Ashley River bridges get congested. Emergency situations like missing persons or urgent custody documentation get priority response, and we’re familiar with the area from Avondale to Summerville Road. West Ashley’s mix of established neighborhoods and new developments requires investigators who understand both the historic areas and rapidly growing suburbs.