True or False: A licensed private investigator can contact and interview opposing parties in pending litigation without consent.

The statement is false because a licensed private investigator cannot contact and interview opposing parties in pending litigation without consent or proper legal authorization. Ethical standards, along with legal protocols, generally require that if a party is represented by an attorney, the investigator must go through the attorney rather than directly contacting the opposing party. This is to prevent any potential conflicts or unethical behavior, as well as to ensure that the party's rights are protected during the litigation process.

If a party is not represented, there are still considerations regarding appropriate conduct and the potential for misunderstanding. However, direct contact with opposing parties generally requires caution and often consent to avoid jeopardizing the legal process or the rights of those involved. This makes it essential for private investigators to adhere to legal regulations and ethical considerations in their activities in relation to litigation matters.