Louisiana Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive Test Prep

In the context of legal ethics and professional conduct, a private investigator cannot contact opposing parties who are represented by an attorney in pending litigation without the attorney's consent. This rule is in place to uphold the integrity of the legal process and to protect the rights of the parties involved in the litigation.

Attorneys have a duty to represent their clients and ensure that their interests are not undermined by unauthorized communications from third parties. When an opposing party is represented, any communication from a private investigator could create complications in the legal process, potentially influencing the course of the litigation without the attorney's knowledge or oversight. Therefore, it is considered unethical and improper for a private investigator to make such contact without obtaining the necessary permission from the attorney representing the opposing party.

The other choices imply circumstances under which an investigator might contact a represented party without consent, which contradicts established ethical guidelines. For example, relying on prior experience or specific hours does not alter the ethical requirement that respects the attorney-client relationship in ongoing legal matters.