1 - Private Investigators Work in a Variety of Fields

Being a private investigator isn't all about trailing suspects down dark alleyways and participating in stakeouts across the street from the target! In real life, a private investigator in Knoxville, TN, may be asked to work on a wide variety of cases across many different fields. Surveillance is a big part of the job, but they may also be asked to perform background checks, investigate fraud or insurance claims, locate missing persons, process serving, and assist in corporate investigations. The work is extremely varied and requires a great deal of skill and experience!

2 - Private Investigators Are Experts in Surveillance

Most media depictions of private investigators will show them engaging in surveillance operations, and that is actually fairly accurate. Surveillance is one of the main tasks that a private investigator in Knoxville, TN, will be asked to perform. As a result, a good PI needs to be an expert in a number of surveillance methods. This might include the stereotypical stakeout, hidden cameras, and tracking devices, among others. It is important to note that all surveillance activities must be within the bounds of the law.

3 - Private Investigators Can Access Extensive Databases

One thing that most cases a private investigator in Knoxville, TN, takes on have in common is that they involve gathering information. That means PIs need to be able to find information that a member of the general public may not have access to. Most private investigators will have access to a variety of databases that allow them to find detailed information about an individual, including their personal records, criminal records, financial records, and more. All of this information needs to be accessed legally and ethically and does not involve hacking or any other criminal activity.

4 - Private Investigators Are Bound by Legal & Ethical Guidelines

As already noted, when it comes to surveillance and gathering information, a private investigator in Knoxville, TN, has to do so in accordance with the law. There is a misconception that private investigators are a little shady and may not be averse to breaking the law to find the necessary information, but that is not the case. Any reputable private investigator will always abide by the law and will also have a strict code of ethics. They must always respect privacy rights and confidentiality at all times. For example, photographing a target in a public place, such as on the street or outside a hotel where there is no expectation of privacy, is acceptable, but taking photos of them in their private residence through their window is not. Similarly, accessing records through a registered database is fine, but hacking into someone's personal computer is not. It is important when choosing a private investigator in Knoxville, TN, that you only work with ethical PIs in good standing.

5 - Private Investigators Cannot Make Arrests

It is common for a private investigator to work with law enforcement agencies, especially on more complex cases. While they may exchange information and work together to resolve a case, private investigators are not permitted to make an arrest themselves. They are not law enforcement and have no authority to do so. It would be a criminal offense for them to carry a badge or impersonate a law enforcement officer.

6 - Anybody Can Hire Private Investigators

Although private investigators often work with law enforcement, anyone, including individuals or organizations, can hire them. Whether you are trying to find a missing family member, dig up evidence of a partner's infidelity, or a business investigating internal matters or preventing fraud, a private investigator in Knoxville, TN, can help find the information you need.

Why Choose Kendall Investigations?

If you are looking for a private investigator in Knoxville, TN, look no further than Kendall Investigations. Retired FBI Special Agent Kendall Shull leads Kendall Investigations. His team of experienced private investigators assists both private individuals and businesses in Knoxville, Tennessee, and the rest of the country. Our team specializes in video and photographic evidence, and each investigator is trained to conduct interviews and interrogations to gather evidence.