Is It Legal to Hire a Private Investigator in Florida?

Hiring a Private Investigator in Florida:

What Orlando & Central Florida Residents Need to Know

Hiring a private investigator often feels like a last resort. Most people assume it’s extreme, legally risky, or only used in criminal cases. In reality, hiring a licensed private investigator in Florida is completely legal—and it is a common, strategic tool in family law, civil disputes, business matters, and personal safety cases.

If you’re located in Orlando, Winter Park, Daytona Beach, or Central Florida and are considering hiring a PI, this guide explains what private investigators can and cannot legally do under Florida law, and when it makes sense to take that step.

Is It Legal to Hire a Private Investigator in Florida?

Yes. Hiring a private investigator in Florida is legal as long as the investigator is properly licensed.

Florida regulates private investigators under Florida Statutes Chapter 493, which requires anyone conducting investigations for compensation to hold a valid license issued by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS).

Licensed investigators must hold:

• A Class “C” Private Investigator License, or

• A Class “CC” Intern License under direct supervision

At Rambo Investigations, LLC we are fully licensed and insured and provide investigative services throughout Orlando, Winter Park, Daytona Beach, and surrounding Central Florida communities.

What a Private Investigator Can Legally Do in Florida

A licensed Florida private investigator may legally perform the following services:

Surveillance in Public Places

PIs may observe, photograph, and document behavior in public or publicly visible areas.

This is commonly used in:

• Divorce and infidelity investigations

• Child custody and cohabitation cases

• Workers’ compensation and insurance claims

Background Checks & Records Research

Investigators can lawfully conduct in-depth background investigations, including:

• Criminal history searches

• Prior marriages or aliases

• Civil litigation and fraud indicators

Skip Tracing & Locates

Private investigators regularly perform skip tracing, which involves locating individuals who are:

• Missing or estranged family members

• Heirs in probate matters

• Debtors or parties avoiding service

GPS Tracking (When Lawfully Authorized)

A PI may deploy GPS tracking devices only when the client owns the vehicle or has legal authority to consent. This is commonly used in:

• Asset verification

• Custody and family law cases

• Business and fleet investigations

Social Media & Online Investigations

Investigators may analyze publicly available digital information, including:

• Social media activity

• Online behavioral patterns

• Digital footprint analysis

What a PI Cannot Do in Florida

Even licensed investigators have strict legal limits. A Florida PI cannot:

• Trespass on private property

• Hack phones, emails, or social media accounts

• Install hidden cameras inside homes, hotel rooms, or bathrooms

• Impersonate law enforcement or government officials

• Access protected financial, phone, or medical records without legal authority

  
  

At Rambo Investigations, LLC all evidence is gathered lawfully, ethically, and in compliance with Chapter 493, ensuring it is court-ready and defensible.

Why Hiring a Private Investigator in Orlando Makes Sense

Central Florida residents frequently hire private investigators for:

• Infidelity and relationship concerns

• Child custody and family disputes

• Asset and fraud investigations

• Probate and missing heir cases

• Business and corporate matters

Attorneys across Orange, Seminole, and Volusia Counties regularly rely on licensed investigators to strengthen cases with documented, admissible evidence.

Whether you’re a spouse seeking clarity, a parent protecting your child, or a business owner safeguarding assets, verified facts matter.

The Benefits of Hiring a Private Investigator

Expertise and Experience

Private investigators bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. They know the ins and outs of the law and how to gather evidence effectively. This expertise can save you time and stress.

Discretion and Confidentiality

When you hire a PI, you can expect discretion. Investigators understand the sensitive nature of their work. They handle your case with the utmost confidentiality, ensuring your privacy is protected.

Objective Perspective

Sometimes, emotions can cloud judgment. A private investigator provides an objective perspective. They can help you see the situation clearly and make informed decisions based on facts.

Comprehensive Investigations

PIs have access to resources and databases that the average person does not. They can conduct thorough investigations, uncovering information that may be crucial to your case.

Why Choose Rambo Investigations, LLC

• Fully licensed in Florida.

• Local to Orlando, Winter Park, and Daytona Beach.

• Court-ready reports & photo documentation.

• Background checks, surveillance, and skip tracing.

• Trusted by individuals and attorneys throughout Central Florida.

  
  

Get a Free Consultation Today

If you're wondering whether hiring a private investigator is the right move, let’s talk. We offer free, confidential consultations, and we’ll help you understand what’s possible under Florida law.

Call or Text: (407) 900-5880

Serving Orlando, Winter Park, Daytona Beach, and surrounding areas.

If you're dealing with relationship concerns, hiring a private investigator can be a crucial step. At Rambo Investigations, we provide affordable, discreet, and reliable ways to uncover the truth. Don't hesitate to reach out for assistance.