TV shows, movies, and social media have created some false narratives about private investigators. Iconic shows, books, and movies have shaped how people view private investigators to this day, but there are often myths about private investigators that are shown as true. If all you know about PIs is what you have seen on Psych or read about in Sherlock Holmes novels, read below to learn more about what PIs do.
1- Police And Private Investigators Have A Bad Relationship
One of the most persistent myths about private investigators is that police and PIs don’t get along. Movies and TV shows portray private detectives or investigators breaking the law, going behind the police’s back, and chasing down criminals despite any obstacle. This is not true, which means that police don’t have any reason to hate PIs.
Police do not view private investigators as an opponent or threat. In fact, PIs help aid police investigations and provide support during challenging cases. Both are invested in finding the truth, which is easier when multiple eyes are on the same project. The only reason police would have a strained relationship with PIs is if they feel they are above the law.
2- Hack, Track, Or Stalk
When people suspect that incriminating information is out there, they may believe that PIs can do whatever is necessary to obtain it. Movies, books, and other media have portrayed that PIs may hack someone’s computer to gain incriminating information, follow someone and harass them, etc. While private investigators can conduct surveillance, they must do it in an ethical way and follow local laws. Tracking someone on GPS, taking photos without proper permission, or wiretapping without proper consent is not something that a qualified investigator does.
3- PIs Are Lone Wolves And Work Alone
Another common myth is that PIs only work alone. However, many private investigators work in a team or with an investigation agency as many people have different knowledge in specialized areas. Private investigators often focus on a few specific cases in order to provide more personalized results to their clients.
Private investigators can also work with attorneys and law enforcement to help enhance their current cases. Hiring a private investigator will comb over collected evidence, conduct further interviews, or take photos of the crime scene and surrounding areas.
4- Each Day Is Exciting As A Private Investigator
While some private investigators see some exciting cases, most days are looking over paperwork and compiling evidence. Private investigators enjoy their jobs, but it is not always glamorous or exciting. High-speed chases, high-risk stakeouts, and catching someone in the act are not the norm when it comes to investigative techniques.
5- You Are Hired To Catch Cheaters Or Dangerous Criminals
Private investigators are often hired for low-profile cases, but some work on more serious cases like infidelity or those accused of criminal acts. Most private investigators are not out on the streets chasing criminals though. They collect the evidence needed to push the case to the courts and a resolution and present it to the client that hired them. Even if the evidence shows that someone is guilty, a private investigator is not the one to make the arrest or present the evidence.
6- There Is A Private Investigator Uniform
Fedoras, trench coats, and disheveled hair are often the wardrobes of Hollywood private investigators. In the real world, there is no specific PI uniform or protocol on how to dress on the job. Similar to other law enforcement officials it is best for private investigators to not call attention to ourselves. Flashy clothes, expensive accessories, and bold clothes are not recommended for private investigators.
Working With St. George Private Investigations
Our Utah private investigators want to help you with any case you may encounter. Even if you have believed one of these myths in the past, we would still be happy to show you our expertise. Even if we don’t fit the Hollywood mold, we can provide you with the research and evidence you desire. Our team can help with child custody investigations, infidelity cases, criminal cases, and more. Learn more about how we can help you and what methods we use in our investigations by reaching out to our team.
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