The Risks of Hiring Unlicensed Private Investigators in Florida

Unlicensed investigators from other states are becoming a growing problem in Florida. These agencies are operating without the proper licensure and oversight, putting both clients and the general public at risk. By not obtaining a license and failing to follow state laws, these unlicensed investigators are engaging in illegal activity. Because many of these investigators are working from outside the state, they may not be subject to the same level of oversight and regulation as licensed Florida investigators. Furthermore, unlicensed investigators may not be held accountable for any illegal or unethical activities they engage in. According to the Florida State rules – performing work without a license is a felony on the second offense.

One of the main concerns with unlicensed investigators is that they often subcontract investigators who cannot get work in Florida. This means that the unlicensed investigators are hiring other unlicensed or inexperienced investigators to conduct investigations on their behalf. This can pose a significant risk to clients, as their personal information may be shared with multiple individuals who may not have the necessary training or experience to handle it properly.

When unlicensed investigators subcontract work to another investigator, they may not have the same level of control over the investigation as they would if they were conducting it themselves. This can lead to a lack of oversight and accountability, which can result in poor quality work and a lack of professionalism. Furthermore, the subcontractor may not have the same level of insurance and bonding as the original investigator, leaving clients vulnerable in the event of a mistake or error.

Not to mention, hiring an unlicensed investigator puts you at risk in court.

When an unlicensed investigator is used to collect evidence, there is a risk that the evidence may not be admissible in court. This is because courts have the discretion to exclude evidence that is obtained illegally or through unethical means. If the evidence collected by an unlicensed investigator is not admissible, it could weaken or even destroy your case. This could be especially damaging in criminal cases, where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

In conclusion, hiring a private investigator who is not licensed in Florida is a huge liability. Not only are they breaking the law by not being licensed, but they also put your personal information and case at risk. It is important to do your due diligence and only work with licensed and reputable investigators to protect yourself and your case.