Worried Something’s Being Hidden from You? What a Private Investigator Singapore and Family Lawyer Can Really Do Together
- Clarissa
- Jul 29
- 5 min read
When Doubt Meets Legal Consequences
Relationships are built on trust—but sometimes, doubt creeps in. Maybe it’s a sudden change in behaviour. Maybe someone isn’t being upfront about finances, custody arrangements, or long-term commitments. You want clarity. But you also want to stay within the law.
That’s why many Singaporeans turn to both family lawyers and private investigators when facing uncertainty in personal relationships. Together, these professionals help uncover facts and provide legal options that protect your best interests.
In this guide, we break down how a Private Investigator Singapore families trust can work hand-in-hand with legal experts to give you answers—without crossing ethical or legal boundaries.
When Should You Involve a Private Investigator and a Lawyer?
If you’re feeling unsure about a personal situation— be it related to finances, parenting arrangements, or trust— you might wonder whether you’re overthinking. But often, that gut feeling means something needs to be addressed.
Common Scenarios in Singapore:
Unequal or secretive handling of family finances
Concerns about parenting arrangements after separation
Lack of transparency during divorce proceedings
Worries over new influences around your child
Suspicious behaviour in joint business matters involving a spouse
In any of these situations, a Singapore private investigator can legally gather facts, while a family lawyer helps translate those findings into legal strategy.
Unlike what’s shown in dramas, private investigators are licensed professionals with clear legal boundaries. In Singapore, they are regulated by the Police Licensing & Regulatory Department (PLRD).
A Licensed Private Investigator Can:
Perform background checks (employment, financial, legal history)
Verify property ownership or assets
Document public behaviour (in legally permissible spaces)
Cross-reference legal records and public databases
What They Cannot Do:
Hack phones, emails, or private accounts
Plant hidden cameras or devices in private areas
Access financial accounts without consent
All findings from a PI must comply with local laws to be admissible in court—and that’s where family lawyers in Singapore step in to advise on what can and can’t be used.
The Lawyer - PI Relationship: A Legal Power Duo
Family lawyers often refer clients to trusted private investigators when a case requires more than verbal testimony. Similarly, PIs sometimes consult with lawyers before launching investigations, to ensure the findings will be legally useful.
How They Work Together:
Lawyers define what’s needed (e.g., proof of income for child support adjustments)
PIs investigate within those boundaries, documenting facts without breaking privacy laws
Lawyers interpret the findings and guide next legal steps—such as filing for asset disclosure, requesting custody changes, or defending against false claims
This teamwork ensures you’re not just gathering information, but using it in a way that protects your rights.
Family Law Issues Where PIs Are Commonly Involved
a) Divorce and Separation
During divorce, each side must disclose financial information honestly. But what if one party isn’t?
A PI can:
Trace hidden assets or undeclared income
Confirm property ownership not listed in official documents
Check for signs of financial misconduct affecting joint interests
b) Child Custody and Care
When determining custody or visitation rights, the court prioritises the child’s well-being. A PI can:
Observe and document care arrangements
Check if a co-parent is following court orders
Verify lifestyle and safety conditions around the child
c) Post-Divorce Disputes
Even after divorce is finalised, disagreements can arise over maintenance payments or custody terms. Lawyers may work with a PI to:
Confirm changes in financial status
Investigate if a child is exposed to potentially harmful environments
Real-Life Example (Fictionalised for Privacy)
Case Study: Clarifying Parenting Time
Jean suspected her ex-husband was regularly leaving their child in the care of others during his scheduled custody time. With the help of a licensed Private Investigator in Singapore, her lawyer obtained verified reports documenting these occurrences.
The court accepted the findings, and Jean’s lawyer successfully requested a change in custody arrangements, citing the child’s best interests.
What the Process Looks Like
Step-by-Step Collaboration:
Initial Legal Consultation – You explain your situation to a family lawyer.
Referral or Recommendation – Your lawyer refers you to a PI (or you engage one yourself).
Scope Setting – The lawyer and PI define the legal objectives and what evidence is required.
Investigation Phase – The PI gathers data within legal limits.
Reporting & Strategy – The lawyer reviews the findings and advises on next legal steps.
Why You Shouldn’t Go It Alone
DIY sleuthing might sound tempting—but it can backfire:
Illegally obtained evidence may be inadmissible in court
Untrained investigations can expose you to legal risks
Emotional involvement often clouds objectivity
By working with a licensed PI and a qualified lawyer, you keep things lawful, safe, and strategic.
How Much it's Going to Cost
Private Investigator: SGD $100–$300/hour depending on scope
Background checks: SGD $500–$1200
How Much Does a Family Lawyer Cost in Singapore?
Lawyer consultations: SGD $300–$500/hour (depending on experience)
Always ask for a quote and clearly define the scope of work upfront.
Choosing the Right Professionals
Before you engage anyone, consider these:
For PIs:
Experience in family law-related investigations
Transparent reporting methods
Positive client reviews
For Lawyers:
Specialisation in family law
Experience handling PI-supported cases
Clear communication style
Willingness to collaborate with external professionals
You’re Not Being Paranoid, You’re Being Proactive
When something feels off, it’s okay to take action. In fact, the earlier you seek help, the more options you have.
A Private Investigator Singapore residents rely on can help uncover facts discreetly, while a family lawyer ensures those facts are used to protect your rights.
Together, they help you navigate difficult personal situations with clarity, confidence, and legal protection.
Where to Find Trusted Private Investigators in Singapore
If you’re ready to engage a professional but unsure where to begin, Singapore is home to several reputable private investigator firms licensed under the Private Security Industry Act. These agencies are experienced in handling a wide range of cases — from corporate investigations to personal matters — while operating within the legal framework of Singapore.
To help you get started, we’ve curated a list of trusted private investigator agencies in Singapore based on credibility, licensing, transparency, and client feedback.
Explore our featured list here:
Agencies | License Number |
L/PS/000962/2024 | |
Whether you're looking for professional surveillance, background checks, or help with a complex case, choosing the right investigator starts with knowing your options. Use our review guide to make an informed decision with confidence.
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Click here to explore the latest news and expert tips on all things private investigation.
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