A Job Like Kalinda's on "The Good Wife"

On Abovethelaw.com, David Lat introduces being a private investigator as an alternative to lawyering.  On "The Good Wife," Kalinda the firm's PI makes it look interesting and a way to create unique value for the practice of law.  But, she gripes to partner Diane that she earns peanuts compared to the lawyers.

In addition, some of the work involved can be tedious.  I looked into this about six years ago when my communications boutique collapsed.  The PI firm seemed to be profitable but those they employed weren't getting rich.  Also some of the assignments were stake-outs, that is sitting in one's car with a video camera, waiting for the miscreant to enter or depart a motel room.  I ruled out that career path.