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 Iowa, private investigators are regulated under Iowa Code Chapter 80A and the administrative rules in 661, Chapter 121. They are required to be licensed by the Iowa Department of Public Safety. When hired during a divorce process to investigate suspicions of adultery or other improper behavior, private investigators must adhere to legal guidelines regarding privacy and surveillance. They are permitted to observe and collect evidence in public places, but they must not engage in illegal activities such as trespassing, harassment, or violating someone's reasonable expectation of privacy. Evidence gathered by private investigators can be used in court, but it must be obtained legally. It's important for anyone hiring a private investigator in Iowa to ensure that the investigator is properly licensed and aware of the legal boundaries of their work. An attorney can provide guidance on the use of private investigators in divorce proceedings and ensure that any evidence obtained is admissible in court.