Background Checks by a Private Investigator

Generally speaking, people understand the difference between right and wrong without being taught. A private investigator is no different and is obligated to follow certain rules. Using a private investigator is not always an easy choice, especially for people concerned about costs. However, compared to other professionals or an inexperienced fact-gatherer, a licensed private investigator may be the most efficient and economical way to obtain the information you need.

Although the stereotypical image of a private investigator is busting illegal operations or solving a mystery, laws and ethical practices are used to stop any behavior that compromises fairness to both citizens and criminals. In addition, many government agencies allow licensed private investigation firms to have access to certain databases typically only otherwise available to law enforcement. Because private investigation firms are subject to licensing standards, government agencies know that these firms will abide by the law when utilizing databases, particularly criminal history databases that are highly regulated.

There is also a common stereotype that private investigators unethically obtain evidence. It’s essential that PI’s comprehend laws that are founded on ethics. You don’t want to damage the merits of a case due to unethical actions based on the ignorance of what’s right and wrong. The difference between a PI and the general population, however, is that breaking ethical laws is so serious that it can actually warrant prosecution, so being taught the rules is critical. Just as government agencies are more comfortable working with licensed private investigation firms, you should be too. Under agency law, if you direct someone to perform certain tasks for you and that person acts contrary to the law, you could be found vicariously liable for his or her actions. This is particularly worrisome for an attorney, doctor, accountant, financial advisor or other professional who are themselves subject to State or Federal licensing.

Can I speak about the scenario and still feel as if the decisions and actions that took place were in the interest of fairness and justice?

It is no wonder that attorneys tend to use independent, private investigators more than most other professionals. When an attorney assumes the role of fact finder, he precludes his or her ability to operate effectively as an advocate. By ethical rules, an attorney cannot be a witness in a case he is litigating. An independent investigator is better suited than a firm’s paralegal or other person associated with the case to overcome claims of bias or personal interest in the outcome of the case. Generally, jurors perceive a professional private investigator as more objective than those associated with the law firm litigating the claim

Ethics are the basic instinct of what’s right and wrong, and should be carefully considered through every aspect of private investigation. Not all situations are black and white; however, and that’s where classroom learning becomes crucial.

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