PI Evidence Standards in Texas Courts

Under Texas Rule of Evidence 901, evidence must be authenticated before admission. Watson PI provides authentication affidavits for all video and photographic evidence, establishing: the date, time, and location of recording; the equipment used; the chain of custody from recording to delivery; and the investigator's identity and qualifications.

Watson PI maintains a chain of custody log for all evidence from the moment of collection through delivery to counsel. The log documents: who collected the evidence; when and where it was collected; how it was stored and transported; who had access to it; and when it was transferred to counsel. This documentation is provided as part of every final report.

PI reports are prepared as business records under Texas Rule of Evidence 803(6). Watson PI's reports include: the date and time of preparation; the investigator's identity and qualifications; a description of the investigation methodology; and a factual summary of observations. Reports are prepared contemporaneously with the investigation, not reconstructed after the fact.

David Watson is available to testify as a fact witness (regarding his direct observations) or, in appropriate cases, as an expert witness on surveillance methodology, investigation standards, and evidence collection practices. Watson PI has provided testimony in Travis County District Court, Travis County Family Court, and federal court proceedings.