What must a private investigator do before conducting surveillance?

A private investigator must obtain proper documentation and adhere to any legal restrictions before conducting surveillance to ensure that their actions comply with relevant laws and regulations. This is crucial as surveillance can easily infringe on privacy rights if not conducted properly.

Documentation may include the necessary permissions or authorizations required to legally observe an individual, especially if the surveillance takes place in areas where privacy expectations are higher, such as homes or private properties. Understanding and following legal restrictions is also vital in order to avoid potential civil lawsuits or criminal charges that could arise from illegal surveillance activities.

While informing the public, ensuring clients' presence, or completing additional training courses might seem beneficial, they do not fulfill the essential legal framework that governs the practice of private investigation. The focus must remain on operating within the law to maintain professional integrity and protect the rights of all parties involved.