Wha Can a Private Investigator Do?
A private investigator (PI) is a professional hired to conduct investigations, usually for private citizens or businesses. As a result of popular fiction, cinema, and American culture – there are many misconceptions about what can a private investigator do. PI’s have a variety of skills, resources, and tools to gather information, including surveillance, background checks, and interviews. However, their actions are restricted by both ethical and legal considerations.If you’re wondering what can a private investigator do, or considering hiring a private investigator to conduct an investigation, consider the following:
What can a private investigator do:
- Conduct surveillance to gather information on a subject’s activities and whereabouts. This is typically done by following the subject, using tracking devices, or monitoring their social media accounts.
- Conduct background checks by accessing public records and databases to gather information on an individual’s criminal history, employment history, and other relevant information.
- Interview witnesses, victims, and suspects to gather information and build a case.
- Conduct investigations related to infidelity, child custody, and missing persons.
- Provide security and protection services, such as bodyguard services or protection of high-value assets.
What a private investigator cannot do:
- Engage in illegal activities, such as breaking and entering, hacking, or wiretapping. PIs must adhere to the law and obtain consent for any information-gathering activities.
- Use tactics that violate an individual’s privacy rights, such as accessing protected health or financial information.
- Fabricate evidence or present false information in their investigation. PIs are expected to conduct their investigations in an ethical and professional manner.
- Provide legal advice or act as a representative in a court of law. PIs can provide information to lawyers, but they cannot give legal advice.
- Act as law enforcement without a proper license. PIs cannot make arrests or use excessive force.
One of the most common questions individuals or businesses who are considering hiring a private investigator ask is “what can a private investigator do?” Private investigators can play a valuable role in gathering information and solving cases, but their actions are restricted by the law and ethical considerations. They must operate within the bounds of the law and respect individuals’ privacy rights while conducting their investigations.
