Legal Aspects of Hiring a Private Investigator
Private investigators undertake research tasks that ordinary citizens may not legally be allowed to do. The scope of a private investigator’s work varies. Private investigators work within legal limits. They may observe or follow a person (surveillance), interview people, obtain personal records, or research online records. They would require a license to practice. If a private investigator violates your privacy they can be sued. Damages could include money for your injuries like counseling costs or lost income. However just because someone hired a private investigator to gather information about you does not mean you automatically have the grounds to sue. An experienced, licensed private investigator generally has more legal leeway to follow someone than an average person would.
Identifying Surveillance by Private Investigators
To confirm you’re being watched, look for unfamiliar cars on your street that aren’t your neighbors’ vehicles. Drive safely over the speed limit – if followed, local police might pull the tailing car over, possibly informing you of surveillance. Wall plates slightly out of alignment or small holes in walls or furniture could hide cameras or microphones. Increased contacts by strangers near or far might indicate a private investigator’s work.