About David M. Harlan, Licensed Private Investigator

David M. Harlan is a licensed private investigator with over 12 years of hands-on experience in the field. He began his career conducting background checks and surveillance for a regional investigations firm before moving into corporate fraud, insurance claims, and family law matters, including child custody and marital investigations. David holds a California Private Investigator license and has worked both as an in-house investigator for agencies and on independent contract assignments supporting insurance companies, HR departments, and attorneys. He is passionate about helping people understand the realities of private investigations and the steps required to enter this evolving profession responsibly.

Can a Private Investigator Tap Your Phone?

No — a private investigator cannot legally tap your phone. Federal law under the Electronic Communications Privacy Act prohibits intercepting phone calls without consent, and this applies to PIs just as it does to private citizens. Breaking this law is …

Can Private Investigators Be Charged with Stalking?

Yes, private investigators can be charged with stalking. A license authorizes surveillance within the law. It doesn’t exempt a PI from it. If an investigator causes serious emotional distress, violates a restraining order, or conducts surveillance without a legitimate purpose, …

How to Market Yourself as a Private Investigator

Private investigator marketing works best when you know exactly who you’re trying to reach. Domestic clients find you through Google and online reviews. Attorneys and insurance adjusters come through personal relationships and referrals. Build your website first, then match your …