Verifying owner of domain

[hessodreamy]

There's a domain that's already owned and I'm in the process of negotiating purchasing it from the owner. But I've not done this before so I wasnted to make sure I don't get ripped off by someone taking money for something they either don't actually own, or aren't going to relinquish.
What's the process?
According to whois.net the domain is registered through godaddy.
Godaddy gave contact details as some email @namegiant.com, and I have been negotiating with them.
Is the the right process of ascertaining the owner and is there some way of protecting myself/business when doing a direct deal?

[Compguy Pete]

I think any time your looking at buying ANYTHING you have to follow the little voice in your head.

However, the thing you need to remember is that if you use a proper payment method you can stop and/or have the charges reversed.