What Is A Private Investigator Allowed To Do?

Private investigators are often used by creditors and process servers to gather information on an individual so they can be served or so that other actions can be taken against them. However, private investigators are hired for a variety of other purposes. Regardless of why a private investigator is hired, they must act within the confines of the law. 

Database Searches

For a private investigator, it's very easy to find a lot of information while following the law. One of the easiest ways to do this is to use databases that private investigators have access to that are not available to the public. This allows for the private investigator to verify addresses and perform other types of research. However, some information is protected and the private investigator must obtain consent to access the information. 

Social Media Searches

A lot of research is performed using information that is posted and freely available to the public. For example, an individual being investigated might post damning photographs to their own social media account and not set it to private. However, a private investigator is not allowed to obtain unauthorized access to an account. For example, they cannot hack into an account.

Field Research

A private investigator is not allowed to trespass on private property. However, private investigators are often able to gather a lot of information while remaining on public property. Some private investigators are able to convince a property owner to allow them onto the property but they must leave immediately if they are asked to do so.

In public, a private investigator is free to take pictures. However, they are not allowed to take pictures through a window and violate an individual's privacy. In some states, a private investigator is not even allowed to take photographs of an individual in their backyard. 

Wiretapping

Recording conversations on the phone is often not allowed depending on the state in which the recording is taking place. The private investigator might need to obtain permission from the other party before they can record a conversation.

There will usually need to be a valid reason to hire a private investigator. For example, you cannot hire a private investigator simply to keep up with someone. Valid reasons include obtaining information on whether an individual has committed a crime or whether they are hiding assets during a divorce. Even with the restrictions in place, a private investigator can often find the information you need. 

To learn more. reach out to a company like Gary Litton Investigators.

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