Where to Begin: Gathering Initial Information

The starting point of a successful search often depends on the information you already possess. The process typically becomes more efficient when a full name is known. However, in cases such as adoption or lost contact with biological family members, the initial data may be incomplete. In such instances, the search may take longer as we methodically reach out to all potential leads — including relatives, former neighbors, attorneys, or co-workers — who might be pieces of the overall puzzle.

Once a name is established, we are better positioned to gather additional information for our clients. It is important to collect data that may be linked to publicly available records, such as birth, marriage, or death documents. Alternatively, knowledge of any legal procedures involving the individual — including associated attorney contact information — may prove valuable. Many public employees operate at the county, state, or national level and provide searchable public record databases that can assist in the tracing process.

The most reliable public records may include:

• Annual financial records: including bankruptcy filings, default notices, judgment indexes, and liens, often containing names, addresses, and even social security numbers.

• Criminal violation databases: listing individuals charged with offenses.

• Property and tax records: documenting real estate owned by individuals or businesses.

• Civil court records: including information on lawsuits, divorces, and other civil matters.

• Supreme Court criminal indices: listing individuals charged with felonies.

• Birth certificates: frequently a starting point in adoption research.

• Various government records: professional licenses (e.g., accountants, doctors, architects, cosmetologists, nurses, psychologists), which may include current contact information.

How We Assist

LSC applies a structured, legally sound, and thoroughly documented methodology to trace missing persons — including reconstructing residence history, social networks, travel patterns, and other relevant data. Our approach may also involve international cooperation when necessary.

During the initial phase, we thoroughly review all available information you provide — including personal data, prior contact details, professional history, and other relevant lifestyle information. We then apply specialized data collection and analytical methods to organize pertinent information, identify data gaps, and determine the most effective search directions.

In many situations, only minimal initial information is needed to begin a meaningful search. Through systematic analysis and, if required, international collaboration, we can uncover key details that may not have been accessible to you previously.

What If I'm Unsure What Information Is Needed?

If you are uncertain whether you possess sufficient information to initiate a search, we strongly recommend scheduling a consultation. The role of LSC is not only to conduct the search but also to provide professional guidance, strategic direction, and the information you need to make informed decisions from the very first step.

Searching for a Missing Person

By the time people turn to a private investigator, they have usually exhausted every option available to them. The police have a very specific definition of a missing person and are often unable to help. If you have reached this stage, it is likely that you feel tired, frustrated, and are on the brink of giving up your search.

Some people will prefer us to commence the trace investigation from the start, if they have little information to go on, or are not in a position to undertake simple internet research.

Ideally we would like as much information as you can give at the start of our investigation, including full name, date of birth, last known address, any family members or works address, or any information you feel is relevant. This gives us the best chance to find the subject quickly. However, if the information you have is more limited than that, we will still do our best to help. We have traced people with the smallest of information, and achieve a 95% success rate.

Tracing Birth Parents

Tracing Birth Parents can be a sensitive but often rewarding enquiry to undertake. Insight have specialist Private Investigators with many years of experience to assist with these specialist enquiries. More Information Tracing Birth Parents

The Role of a Private Investigator

Tracing and finding a missing person is one of the most varied investigations we carry out, with the method depending largely on the information we have to start with, and whether or not that person wants to be found, or even knows they are being sought.

Our team has years of experience in tracing missing people and we do not simply rely on outdated information available on the internet. We use a combination of investigative techniques including searching public records, business records like director information, and voter registration, together with other sources at our disposal. Where necessary, we will visit friends and family and carry out physical searches of their last known address.

When we have tracked down the missing person, we will provide you with their contact details. If you want, we can make contact with the person on your behalf and arrange to set up a meeting. In certain circumstances you may wish us to carry out a situation report, so that you know a little about the person before contact is made. This is usually most helpful when tracing distant relatives or people you have not seen for some time, or never met.

We have an excellent track record of finding people where other investigations have failed, we always comply with data protection and privacy laws which debtors often hide behind. This can make the investigation last longer, but we have the determination and patience to succeed in our task.

Insight Investigations enjoys one of the highest success rates in the industry, and we have a reputation for rooting out themost elusive of people. If you are seeking a missing relative or friend, or need to track down a witness or a debtor, contact the team at Insight today for understanding advice and to see how we can help you.

Time Is Critical

In missing person cases, time is a critical factor. The sooner a structured search process begins, the greater the likelihood of uncovering relevant information and connections that lead to meaningful results.