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 Wisconsin, private investigators are regulated under state law. They are required to be licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. To become a licensed private investigator in Wisconsin, individuals must meet certain requirements, including passing a background check and an examination. When hired during a divorce process to investigate suspicions of adultery or other improper behavior, private investigators must operate within the bounds of the law. They are permitted to observe and collect evidence in public places, but they must not engage in illegal activities such as trespassing, invasion of privacy, or harassment. The evidence gathered by private investigators can be used in court proceedings, but it must be obtained legally to be admissible. It's important for anyone considering hiring a private investigator to consult with an attorney to ensure that the investigation is conducted lawfully and the evidence is used appropriately in their divorce case.