What is a common reason for filing a complaint against a private investigator?

Filing a complaint against a private investigator often occurs due to misconduct or violations of the governing regulations, such as the Private Security and Investigative Services Act in Ontario. Private investigators are expected to adhere to strict ethical guidelines and legal standards in their work. Violations can include acting outside their legal authority, breaching client confidentiality, engaging in deceptive practices, or failing to conduct their investigations in a professional manner.

When an investigator does not follow these standards, it can lead to serious implications not only for their license but also for the safety and rights of the individuals involved. This context emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity and compliance with the law, which is essential for maintaining trust in the profession. While other factors, such as exceeding allowable hours or failing to report findings, may also lead to complaints, they are often not as fundamental to the integrity of the investigator's professional conduct as outright misconduct or violations of the Act.