Q. What does a Private Investigator do?

A. A private investigator is hired to obtain information regarding the identity, habits, conduct, movements, whereabouts, affiliations, associations, transactions, reputation, or character of any person or group of persons. A private investigator may also conduct investigations regarding the credibility of witnesses; the whereabouts of missing persons; the location of missing persons; the location or recovery of lost or stolen property; and the causes and origin of- or responsibility for- fires, libels, or losses.

Q. Can a Private Investigator carry a concealed weapon?

A. Yes. A Private Investigator may carry a concealed weapon on duty if he/she also has a firearms permit, and possesses a concealed weapons permit issued by local law enforcement or:

• Is a retired peace officer with an endorsement to carry a concealed weapon or
• Is an active duty peace officer

Q. A Private Investigator has been hired to conduct an investigation. Who must he/she divulge information to?

A. A Private Investigator may not release information acquired during an investigation to anyone other than his or her client, unless otherwise instructed by the client. However, if there are any criminal offenses, information may be released to local law enforcement or the district attorney.

Q. Can a Private Investigator do anything that a police officer can do?

A. No. A Private Investigator has no law enforcement authority even if he/she has been hired by law enforcement to perform an investigation. A Private Investigator is an ordinary citizen and can only make citizen's arrests.

Q. Can a Private Investigator enter property without an owner's consent?

A. No. A Private Investigator may not enter any private building without owner's consent.

Q. Can a Private Investigator use a badge?

A. No. A Private Investigator may not carry or wear a badge in connection with an investigation since it may mislead others to believe that he or she is a peace officer or other government official.

 

Still have questions?  Contact the staff at Aristocrat Investigations! We're here to help!