Under what conditions can a private investigator legally obtain access to personal records?

A private investigator can legally obtain access to personal records when they have informed consent from the individual. Informed consent means that the individual understands what they are consenting to and agrees to it voluntarily. This principle is rooted in privacy laws and ethical standards that govern the collection and use of personal information. When investigators obtain this consent, they ensure they respect an individual’s privacy rights while conducting their investigative work.

The other conditions under which personal records might be accessed, such as court orders or written requests, may have specific legal frameworks and limitations. However, informed consent is the most straightforward and ethical approach, as it empowers individuals to control access to their personal information.