California Private Investigator Practice Exam

What is the best method to locate someone's bank account?

1. Search through public records

2. Serve a subpoena duces tecum on banks

3. Contact the individual directly

4. Hire a private investigator

The correct answer is: Serve a subpoena duces tecum on banks

The most effective method for locating someone's bank account is to serve a subpoena duces tecum on banks. This legal instrument compels a bank to produce specific documents or evidence relevant to an investigation, including account information for the individual in question. It ensures that you are obtaining information in compliance with legal standards and that the bank is obliged to provide the requested data due to the legal authority of the subpoena. Searching through public records may yield limited information, as bank account details are typically not disclosed in public records due to privacy regulations. Contacting the individual directly may also not be effective, as they may choose not to disclose that information. While hiring a private investigator could potentially assist in locating bank accounts through various means, leveraging a subpoena remains the most direct and legally sanctioned approach when specific information about a bank account is needed.