Question:  I have the license plate number from a car that I see parked frequently in front of my son and daughter-in-law's house when he's not there (he travels a lot for his work).  Can I find out the identity of the owner of the license plate?  Do I need to go to a DMV office?

Answer: Many states, including Colorado, have new privacy protections built into their public access to driving records and information.  The only way you can obtain such information in Colorado, for example, is if there is a lawsuit or divorce already filed, and when you go to the DMV office, you indicate the county of that legal action on the license plate information request form.  For other states, it is best to call a local DMV office and ask about their requirements to obtain such information.

Question: My ex-husband hasn't paid child support in five years.  I've remarried (and I've heard he has, too), but I don't know where he lives or works.  I'd like to find out either so I can have him served with back child support recovery papers.  I heard he sometimes hangs out at a bar in a neighboring town.  What if I went to that bar some night and put a GPS device on his car--then I could find out where he lives.     Considering I have legal rights, isn't it also legal for me to use a GPS in this situation?

Answer: Yes, you have legal rights.  No, you have no legal right to attach a GPS to his car unless your name is on the registration.  A private investigator may be able to obtain information about your ex-husband through databases or even by following him from this bar to his home.  To find a qualified private investigator, contact your state professional private investigator association, explain what you would like a PI to help you with, and you'll get recommendations for experienced investigators.