Two identical requests can produce very different outcomes based on what the client had at the start. A few details do most of the work.
High-value starting details
These consistently shorten research time and reduce identity confusion.
- Full name including middle name or initial, and any prior or alternate names
- Approximate age or date of birth
- Any prior address with an approximate date range
- Known relatives, associates, or an employer
- The jurisdiction and case number if one exists
- What has already been tried and failed
Why an old address beats a recent phone number
Address history anchors a subject to recorded documents — deeds, filings, court records — that can be dated and compared. A phone number that has been reassigned anchors to nothing. A five-year-old address with a date range is usually more useful than an unverified current number.
What not to send in an initial form
Never put Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, medical information, passwords, or credentials in a public web form. If a case is accepted and an identifier is genuinely necessary, it should be transmitted through an approved secure method agreed in advance.
Have a matter that needs this kind of research?
Requests are reviewed for a lawful and authorized purpose before acceptance.
Request a Case Review