Private Investigator | The Basics

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What is a Private Investigator?

Private investigators, also known as private detectives or detectives, are highly qualified professionals who provide investigative services 24/7. Most of them with military, and law enforcement backgrounds, they use the latest technology and training to assist the public, lawyers, and corporates in a wide variety of investigations. Here are some of the common types of research they do.

What a Private Investigator Can Do?

Private investigators have diverse skills and resources that allow them to take on a variety of investigative roles. Here are some examples of what a private investigator can do.

  1. Surveillance: Monitoring someone’s activities discreetly.
  2. Person locating: Tracking down individuals.
  3. Cell phone tracking: Tracing usage and location.
  4. Infidelity investigations: Gathering evidence of cheating.
  5. Employment verification: Finding someone’s current employer.
  6. Utility company searches: Locating individuals through utility records.
  7. Background investigations: Unearthing information like employment history, criminal records, and more.
  8. Child custody disputes: Gathering proof for custody cases.
  9. Telephone number investigations: Tracing non-published, cell phone, disconnected, or pager numbers.
  10. Internet surveillance: Monitoring online activities, emails, and forum posts.
  11. Business support: Employment screenings, loss prevention, insurance fraud investigations.
  12. Attorney services: Assisting with legal cases.
  13. Photography and videography: Capturing visual evidence.
  14. Victim assistance: Providing support when police efforts fall short.
  15. Nanny cams/hidden cameras: Ensuring the safety of children or caretakers.
  16. Trash recovery: Investigating discarded items.
  17. DNA/Paternity testing.
  18. Polygraph testing.
  19. Executive protection: Offering personal security services.
  20. Child support collection: Locating and recovering owed payments.
  21. Counter eavesdropping: Detecting electronic surveillance.
  22. Accident scene investigations.
  23. Special assignments: Handling unique requests within legal limits.

Choosing a reputable private investigator is critical to your success. Look for reputable professionals with a track record of prioritizing client privacy, adhering to legal guidelines, and providing reliable service.

What a Private Investigator Can’t Do?

Private investigators have extensive skills and resources, but their scope of work is limited. Here’s what private detectives generally can’t do:

  1. Breaking the law: Private investigators are bound by legal and ethical guidelines. They cannot engage in activities that violate local, state, or federal laws.
  2. Unauthorized access to personal accounts: Private investigators cannot unlawfully access someone’s personal accounts, such as email, social media, or financial records. They must adhere to privacy regulations.
  3. Wiretapping or eavesdropping: It is illegal for private investigators to intercept or record phone conversations without the consent of the parties involved. They must follow wiretapping laws and respect individuals’ privacy.
  4. Hacking or unauthorized computer access: Private investigators are prohibited from engaging in hacking activities or gaining unauthorized access to computer systems, online accounts, or networks.
  5. Impersonation of law enforcement: Private investigators cannot impersonate law enforcement officers or display badges or credentials that falsely represent their authority.
  6. Providing legal advice: Private investigators are not licensed attorneys and cannot provide legal advice or represent clients in a court of law. They may collaborate with attorneys but should not offer legal counsel.
  7. Violating confidentiality: Private investigators are bound by strict confidentiality agreements. They cannot disclose client information or case details without proper authorization unless required by law.
  8. Conducting illegal surveillance: Private investigators must adhere to privacy laws and regulations when conducting surveillance. They cannot invade someone’s privacy in areas where a reasonable expectation of privacy exists, such as bathrooms or private residences.

Remember

When choosing a private investigator, make sure they are qualified, have confidentiality guarantees, and have appropriate insurance. Check your mutual protection agreement carefully. Hiring a trustworthy investigator ensures that your case is handled professionally.

Uncover hidden truths by hiring a qualified private detective. Take control of your investigations with our professional services. Get started today and find the answers you seek.

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