What action can a client take if they feel their private investigator has acted unethically?

A client who believes that their private investigator has acted unethically should indeed file a complaint with the Texas Department of Public Safety. This action is crucial because the Department oversees the licensing and regulation of private investigators in Texas. By filing a complaint, the client not only seeks accountability for the investigator's actions but also helps maintain professional standards within the industry.

The Texas Department of Public Safety has processes in place to investigate such complaints and can take disciplinary actions against investigators if warranted, which may include revocation of their license or other penalties. This ensures that unethical behavior is addressed appropriately and that clients can have recourse when they feel wronged.

Options like ignoring the issue do not lead to any resolution and allow unethical practices to continue unchecked. Reporting to local law enforcement may not be effective unless there is evidence of criminal behavior, and seeking damages in civil court could be a more complex and lengthy process that does not directly address the ethical concerns. Filing a complaint with the Texas Department of Public Safety is the most direct and effective way to hold a private investigator accountable for unethical conduct.