Louisiana Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

When is a person not considered a private investigator under Louisiana law?

1. When they are volunteering

2. When they are managing an investigation firm

3. When they are employed and acting in their duty

4. When they are a licensed attorney

The correct answer is: When they are employed and acting in their duty

A person is not considered a private investigator under Louisiana law when they are employed and acting in their duty, provided their actions fall within the scope of their job responsibilities that do not require a private investigator's license. This means if an individual is working within a role that has specific legal allowances or duties that do not involve providing investigative services to the public for a fee—such as certain governmental positions or other occupations where investigation is a necessary part of their employment—they do not need a private investigator's license. In contrast, other circumstances listed often involve activities that would typically require licensure. For instance, volunteering may not necessitate a license if the activities do not specifically align with private investigation tasks or are performed within a non-commercial context. Managing an investigation firm outright suggests a commercial intent requiring licensure. Likewise, licensed attorneys, in the course of their legal practice, may conduct investigations as part of their role, but they are generally not classified as private investigators under the law when acting in that capacity. Each case relies on the specifics of the role and its functions concerning investigative activities.