Licensed Private Investigator
What a Licensed Private Investigator Can
and Cannot Legally Do
Many people are surprised to learn what a licensed private investigator (PI) can legally do and, just as importantly, what they cannot do. Television and movies often portray investigators as operating outside the law, but licensed private investigators are required to follow strict legal and ethical standards.
Understanding the limits of a PI’s authority can help you make informed decisions when seeking professional investigative services.
What a Licensed Private Investigator Can Do
Conduct Surveillance
One of the most common services provided by private investigators is surveillance. A licensed PI can observe and document activities that occur in public places where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy.
Locate Missing Persons
Private investigators often assist in locating missing family members, witnesses, debtors, heirs, or individuals who have intentionally become difficult to find.
Gather Evidence
A PI can legally collect information, photographs, video evidence, witness statements, and other documentation that may be useful for personal, legal, or business matters.
Conduct Background Investigations
Licensed investigators can perform lawful background research to verify information related to employment, business partnerships, personal relationships, and other matters where due diligence is important.
Interview Witnesses
Private investigators may speak with witnesses and gather statements that help establish facts and uncover critical information.
Perform Asset and Business Research
Investigators can review public records and other legally available sources to identify property ownership, business affiliations, court records, and other relevant information.
What a Licensed Private Investigator Cannot Do
Trespass on Private Property
Private investigators cannot enter private property without permission. Doing so would violate the law just as it would for any private citizen.
Wiretap Phone Calls
Federal and state laws strictly regulate the interception of phone calls and electronic communications. A licensed PI cannot illegally listen to, record, or intercept private conversations.
Hack Computers or Accounts
Private investigators cannot gain unauthorized access to email accounts, social media profiles, mobile devices, computers, or other digital platforms.
Impersonate Law Enforcement
A private investigator is not a police officer and cannot claim to be one. Licensed investigators must clearly operate within the limits of their professional authority.
Access Protected Records Illegally
Certain records, such as medical information, tax records, and other protected data, are subject to privacy laws and cannot be obtained through unlawful means.
Make Arrests or Exercise Police Powers
In most situations, private investigators do not possess the authority to arrest individuals, execute warrants, or perform other law enforcement functions.
Why Hiring a Licensed PI Matters
When you hire a licensed private investigator, you’re hiring a professional who understands how to gather information legally, ethically, and discreetly. Evidence obtained unlawfully can become unusable in court and may expose both the investigator and the client to legal consequences.
At our firm, we believe the truth should be uncovered the right way. Every investigation is conducted with integrity, confidentiality, professionalism, and respect for the law.