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When it comes to uncovering the truth, building a case, or protecting a client’s interests, few partnerships are as strategic—or as misunderstood—as the one between lawyers and private investigators. Behind the scenes of many successful legal outcomes lies a quiet collaboration between these two professions. To understand how this relationship works, we spoke with a private investigator, a criminal lawyer, and a family lawyer about how their fields intersect and why trust and precision are everything.
The Private Investigator: “We’re the eyes and ears that lawyers can’t always be.”
According to Michael Porter, a licensed private investigator with Toronto’s Haywood Hunt & Associates, much of his work begins when a lawyer needs to verify facts before taking a case to court. “Lawyers operate within strict procedural and ethical boundaries, but they can’t always leave their desks to confirm a witness statement or track down a missing person,” Porter explains. “That’s where we come in. We gather the information they need to build a solid case.”
Porter says the role of an investigator varies depending on the type of law involved. “For criminal cases, we might re-interview witnesses or locate new ones who were overlooked. In civil or family cases, we might conduct surveillance or financial background checks. Everything we do must be legal, ethical, and admissible in court.”
Technology, he adds, has changed the game. “Today, a lot of our work involves digital forensics—social media, phone records, GPS data. We’re not just sitting in cars with cameras anymore. The modern PI is just as skilled with data analytics as with fieldwork.”
The Criminal Lawyer: “Good investigators fill in the gaps that evidence alone can’t.”
Calvin Barry, a criminal defence and DUI lawyer based in Toronto, says private investigators play a crucial role in protecting the rights of the accused. “When we take on a criminal case, we’re often working against state resources—police reports, lab results, surveillance footage. Having a trusted investigator levels the playing field,” he explains.
Barry notes that many cases hinge on small but critical details that investigators uncover. “An investigator might find a witness who contradicts the prosecution’s version of events, or they might expose flaws in how evidence was gathered. Those details can change everything.”
He emphasizes that the relationship works best when there’s mutual respect. “Lawyers rely on investigators for accuracy and discretion. If an investigator cuts corners or doesn’t follow proper chain of custody, the evidence can be tossed out. So, I only work with investigators who understand the rules of evidence and courtroom procedure.”
Barry also credits investigators with helping to humanize clients. “They don’t just dig up facts—they help us understand the bigger picture of who our client is and what really happened.”
The Family Lawyer: “We rely on investigators to protect our clients and their children.”
In family law, emotions often run high—and facts can be difficult to obtain. Malerie Rose, a family lawyer with Rose Family Law in Mississauga, says private investigators are vital in cases involving custody disputes, hidden assets, or allegations of misconduct.
“Family court judges make decisions based on evidence, not emotions,” Rose explains. “If one parent claims the other is neglecting the children, or secretly earning undeclared income, we can’t rely on assumptions. A private investigator can quietly and lawfully gather proof.”
Rose stresses that discretion is paramount. “Our clients are often vulnerable and scared. The investigator must operate with empathy and tact. A good PI knows how to get results without escalating the conflict or crossing ethical lines.”
She also points out that investigators often help prevent false allegations. “Sometimes, surveillance or background checks confirm that an accusation is unfounded. That helps protect our client’s reputation and ensures fair decisions.”
The Power of Collaboration
All three professionals agree that the relationship between lawyers and private investigators is built on trust, legality, and communication. As Porter puts it, “When done right, we’re an extension of the legal team. We don’t replace lawyers—we empower them.”
Barry sums it up best: “The truth isn’t always easy to find, but with the right investigator by your side, it becomes a lot clearer.”
*This article is based on personal suggestions and/or experiences and is for informational purposes only. This should not be used as professional advice. Please consult a professional where applicable.