1. Supporting Criminal Defense:

• Finding and Interviewing Witnesses:
Private investigators can locate and interview witnesses that law enforcement might have missed, potentially uncovering information that supports the defendant's version of events. 
• Gathering Evidence:
They can gather various types of evidence, including surveillance footage, photographs, documents, and digital evidence, which can be presented in court. 
• Challenging Prosecution Evidence:
They can investigate the prosecution's evidence, looking for inconsistencies or weaknesses that can be used to challenge its validity in court. 
• Providing Expert Testimony:
In some cases, private investigators can provide expert testimony based on their findings, adding another layer of credibility to the defense's case. 

2. Collaboration with Law Enforcement:
• Assisting Ongoing Investigations:
Private investigators can work with law enforcement agencies on ongoing investigations, providing their expertise and resources to help solve the case.
• Sharing Information:
They can share their findings with law enforcement, potentially helping them to pursue leads or uncover additional evidence. 

3. Adhering to Legal Guidelines:
• Following Legal Procedures:
Private investigators must adhere to all applicable laws and regulations when conducting their investigations, ensuring that all evidence is obtained legally and ethically.
• Respecting Privacy:
They must respect the privacy of individuals and avoid using invasive tactics or entering private spaces without proper authorization. 

4. The Importance of a Fair Trial:
• Ensuring Justice:
By investigating criminal cases thoroughly and independently, private investigators help to ensure that individuals receive a fair trial and that the truth is uncovered.
• Maintaining Integrity of the Justice System:
Their work helps to strengthen the integrity of the justice system by providing an additional layer of scrutiny and accountability. 
In essence, private investigators play a vital role in criminal investigations, particularly within the context of criminal defense, by providing crucial support, gathering evidence, and ensuring that all parties involved have access to a fair and just legal process. A recent article by Supra Private Investigations notes that they work to meticulously examine cases, analyze facts, and uncover crucial details to support legal proceedings.