Use intelligence to frame the next enquiry

Begin with a question the research can address

A useful intelligence brief identifies the entity, relationship, communication or sequence requiring examination and explains why it matters to the dispute. Define the relevant period and jurisdictions. A focused brief allows the researcher to connect each source to a material question and identify what further enquiry may be useful. It also limits the collection of unrelated information that does not assist the commissioned task.

Assess identity before interpreting a connection

Similar names, addresses and online associations can produce incomplete or mistaken matches. Identify the available supporting details and the basis for connecting information to a particular person or entity. A public record may establish a recorded corporate role at a point in time without explaining the full commercial relationship. The report should preserve that distinction and identify material identity questions that the available information cannot resolve.

Evaluate the source and its context

Record where the information came from, the relevant date and whether the material is complete or an extract. Consider whether a later article repeats an earlier claim or adds independent evidence. A screenshot, search result and original source page can provide different levels of context. Supplied material may be valuable without being independently authenticated. The assessment should explain significant source limitations and alternative explanations, particularly where attribution remains uncertain.

Separate a lead from a supported finding

A lead can justify further enquiry without establishing the proposition being investigated. An online profile does not by itself prove who controlled an account. A corporate association does not establish wrongdoing. Link material assessments to the supporting records and explain the strength of that support. Where information conflicts, preserve the difference and its source. The factual account should remain readable without implying that every collected item carries equal weight.

Use the result to define the next step

The research may identify a useful witness, a missing document or a question requiring qualified technical examination. Describe the purpose of that further work and confirm authority, jurisdiction and available capability before extending the scope. Cross-border enquiries need practical source and delivery arrangements for each location. Intelligence supports the factual work of the client and its advisers. Legal strategy and recovery decisions remain with the appropriate advisers. The useful result is a traceable assessment that helps them decide what to examine next.

About this guidance.

Practical commissioning guidance. The appropriate process depends on the matter, instructions and applicable requirements.

Further reading.