When the concept of private investigators is introduced, many people imagine something from a movie. In reality, private investigators are often hired to help in family law cases and can be beneficial for a number of reasons. Most often, investigators are used to demonstrate that someone’s spouse is having an affair. If you have debated retaining the services of a private investigator, there are some things that you should remember to do as well as some things that you should not do.

Do Keep Details About the Investigators Private

It is often a wise idea to avoid telling anyone else that you have retained a private investigator. In the worst situations, you risk potentially leaking details about your divorce strategy to the “other person.” 

It is not unheard of for the cheating spouse to retain the services of a private investigator to determine if surveillance is occurring. In these situations, the other spouse will likely be particularly careful about the affair and avoid creating any evidence that could be used against him or her in a court of law. 

Do Speak to Your Attorney First

It is often a mistake to retain the assistance of a private investigator without first speaking to your divorce lawyer. For one, retaining a private investigator after obtaining the services of a lawyer often means that any evidence the investigator obtains will remain confidential and protected. 

Second, a divorce lawyer can tell you if an investigator’s services are necessary. Third, your lawyer will likely be able to make a recommendation of a reputable investigator who is experienced in the area where you need assistance. 

Do Not Retain a Private Investigator if it is Not Necessary

There are some types of divorce in which hiring a personal investigator might be of little use. For example, if you have been married for less than a year or are unlikely to be awarded alimony, it is often not necessary to retain a private investigator. 

In these situations, you can accrue a number of additional costs during the divorce process with little added advantage. 

Do Not Hire a Friend to Act as a Private Investigator

You should avoid hiring a friend to conduct an investigation. This is almost always a bad idea. First, there is a substantial risk that the friend will end up violating wiretapping as well as trespassing and harassment laws. 

Even if a friend who is hired as an investigator avoids legal repercussions, he or she is often at an elevated risk of being discovered. By avoiding the cost of retaining a professional by using a friend, you can end up facing consequences that are much more costly than the hourly fee that many professional private investigators charge. 

Speak with an Experienced Divorce Lawyer

There are a number of complex decisions to be made during the divorce process. Fortunately, a knowledgeable family law attorney can help. At Vayman & Teitelbaum P.C., we have helped a number of people successfully navigate divorce. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation.