California Private Investigator Practice Exam

If a private investigator learns that their client committed murder, what is their legal obligation?

1. To confront the client about it

2. To notify the client's attorney

3. To turn the client in to authorities

4. To ignore it as it is unrelated to their case

The correct answer is: To notify the client's attorney

When a private investigator becomes aware that their client has committed murder, the best course of action is to notify the client's attorney. This choice aligns with professional ethics and legal counsel standards, as attorneys are bound by attorney-client privilege, which can provide a framework for addressing such serious allegations. By informing the attorney, the private investigator allows for appropriate legal counsel to guide the client on how to proceed in a legally sound manner. Furthermore, turning the client in to authorities, while seemingly a moral obligation, can conflict with the duties a private investigator has toward their client and the legal protections in place. Confronting the client directly may create significant tension and could complicate the legal process without providing any protective measures for the investigator. Ignoring the knowledge of a crime, on the other hand, could lead to serious legal liabilities for the investigator, especially if there are laws against concealing felonies. Therefore, informing the attorney represents the most responsible and legally prudent action in such a situation.