Private investigators handle a wide range of cases in the private sector, providing their services to individuals and businesses seeking resolution or information. Private detectives, on the other hand, work primarily on legal matters and collaborate with attorneys to gather evidence for civil cases.

A private investigator and a private detective are exactly the same thing. Private detective is simply another term for "Private investigator."

A detective is employed by a law enforcement agency, such as a city police department. In contrast, a private investigator is hired by individuals and companies to conduct investigations.

Police detectives are sworn law enforcement officers employed by government agencies like city police departments or state investigative bureaus. They wear badges, carry firearms, and have the legal authority to make arrests, execute warrants, and enforce the law. Private investigators, on the other hand, operate in the private sector.

Detectives and investigators often both work to identify and capture lawbreakers. However, they have different roles in enforcing the law. Detectives have the legal jurisdiction to arrest criminals or suspects, but investigators do not. Similarly, investigators may investigate personal matters, whereas detectives only investigate criminal matters.