3 Common Disadvantages of Using a Private Investigator

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March 16, 2022
Author: Lorman Education

Private investigators (PIs) can be a great asset for attorneys. They offer assistance in fraud analysis, background check, asset search, and other specialized research. PIs possess unique resources that help them efficiently carry out an investigate.

On the other hand, lawyers are expect to have supervisory authority over a PI in their employ. It's their responsibility to ensure those individuals act responsibly in pursuit of their lawyer’s professional obligations. This leads to certain disadvantages.

3 Common Disadvantages of Working with PIs

1. The Law of the Land:

When investigating a case, PIs must obey all investigative rules and regulations in they state they're operating in. If they do not, the lawyer who hired them can share liability. It's essential to clarify the code of conduct a PI should maintain when working on your case.

2. Investigative Methods:

It is mandatory for you to gain a fair understanding of how investigators gather evidence and ensure that all means and methods used by them are permissible in litigation. If you fail to have clear communication with the investigator, it may result in considerable damage not only to your case, but also to your reputation.

3. Ethical Compliance:

Beyond the law, PIs are expected to act actively during an investigation. Hiring unethical PIs can mean damaging your reputation or practice. 

In Conclusion

PIs offer a very valuable skill set. They can save lawyers determination, time, and energy on most cases. However, responsibility is a major factor. Lawyers who intend to hire a PI should clearly communicate their expectations and hold them accountable if they breach those expectations. They should also carefully select their PI based on their reputation.

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