A private investigator or private detective is a person who secretly follows and observes persons in public places for the purpose of witnessing behavior and collecting evidence of any illegal or improper activities (photos, videos, etc.). During the divorce process a spouse who suspects their spouse of cheating (adultery) or other improper or illegal behavior may hire a private investigator to follow or “tail” the other spouse.
In Oregon, private investigators are regulated under state law. They are required to be licensed by the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST). To become a licensed private investigator in Oregon, individuals must meet certain requirements, including passing a criminal background check, completing a mandatory training course, and passing a state examination. Once licensed, private investigators are permitted to conduct surveillance and gather evidence, which can include taking photos and videos in public places. During a divorce process, it is legal for a spouse to hire a private investigator to gather evidence of adultery or other improper behavior by the other spouse. However, private investigators must operate within the law, which means they cannot trespass on private property, engage in illegal wiretapping, or otherwise violate someone's reasonable expectation of privacy. Evidence gathered by private investigators can potentially be used in court, but it must be obtained legally to be admissible.