Frequently Asked Questions – Civil Process, Skip Tracing & Private Investigations

Civil Process starts at $70.00

Skip Trace starts at $25.00

Private Investigations are based on anticipated hours of investigations, database search cost(s), additional materials/supplies. You will have a good idea of cost when we discuss what is needed for your case.

Yes, but we will not. If you have a verifiable and legal cause to locate someone, we will. If not, we will not facilitate any searches due to privacy issues.

Yes, we work with hundreds of attorneys in all different aspects of law. We will proudly share at least a couple attorneys for you to consider.

We do not charge to discuss a case with you. If you get our voicemail, we will call back as soon as we can as we may be serving a paper, interviewing a witness or on the phone with another client. We will call you back.

The timeline depends on the type of document, the quality of the information provided, and the availability of the individual being served. In many cases, successful service can be completed within a few days. More complex cases — such as when a person has moved, is evasive, or works irregular hours — may require additional attempts. IPS LLC keeps clients updated throughout the process so you always know the status of your case.

If an address is outdated or the individual has moved, IPS LLC may recommend skip tracing to verify the most accurate and current information. By using multiple investigative tools, public records, and local knowledge, we can often identify a new service location quickly. Our goal is to minimize delays and provide a clear plan forward if standard service attempts are not successful.

Yes. After successful service, IPS LLC provides properly completed and court-ready documentation. This typically includes an Affidavit of Service or Return of Service that details when, where, and how the documents were delivered. These documents meet Missouri court requirements and can be submitted directly to your attorney or legal department.

Absolutely. IPS LLC offers rush, priority, and after-hours service options for cases that require immediate attention. When urgency is essential — such as time-sensitive hearings, last-minute filings, or situations involving safety concerns — our team can expedite attempts and adjust scheduling to meet strict deadlines. You will be informed as each attempt is completed to maintain transparency.

The timeline depends on the quality of available information and the complexity of the case. In many situations, results can be obtained within a few days, while more complex searches may require additional investigation. We keep clients informed throughout the process so expectations are clear. In Springfield and surrounding Southwest Missouri communities, timely and accurate skip tracing often plays a critical role in civil cases.

Yes, skip tracing is legal in Missouri when conducted using lawful investigative methods and proper documentation standards. Licensed professionals use public records, database research, address verification tools, and legally obtained data to locate individuals. We strictly follow Missouri statutes and applicable privacy regulations to ensure all information is gathered ethically and responsibly. Our process avoids unlawful surveillance or restricted data access, focusing instead on compliant investigative techniques that support civil matters.

Yes. In many cases, skip tracing significantly improves the success rate of civil process serving. When an individual has moved, changed contact information, or is intentionally avoiding service, accurate location research becomes critical. By identifying updated addresses or confirming residency details before attempting service, we reduce delays and unnecessary repeat attempts. Combining skip tracing with civil process services allows attorneys and clients to move cases forward more efficiently and with greater confidence.

The more information provided at the start, the more efficient the investigation can be. Helpful details may include the individual’s full name, last known address, phone numbers, date of birth, employer information, or any known associates. Even partial or outdated information can assist in narrowing results. Our goal is to verify current, accurate data using lawful research methods so legal proceedings can continue without unnecessary setbacks.

Yes. Private investigators operating in Missouri must comply with state licensing requirements and applicable legal standards. Licensing helps ensure that investigative work is conducted lawfully, ethically, and within established professional guidelines.

At IPS LLC, all investigative services are performed in accordance with Missouri regulations and industry best practices. This includes proper documentation procedures, lawful information gathering methods, and adherence to privacy protections. Clients can feel confident knowing that their case is handled by a professional who understands both investigative strategy and legal compliance.

The length of an investigation depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the amount of reliable information available at the start, and the scope of services requested. Some investigations — such as background research or document verification — may be completed relatively quickly. Others, particularly those involving surveillance or multi-source research, may require additional time.

We communicate clearly about timelines from the beginning and provide updates as the investigation progresses. Our goal is to move efficiently while maintaining accuracy and legal compliance, ensuring that clients receive thorough and reliable results without unnecessary delays.

Yes. Private investigation services often play an important role in supporting civil cases. Investigative work may assist attorneys in verifying facts, locating witnesses, identifying assets, or uncovering information that strengthens case strategy.

Because we frequently work alongside law firms and legal departments, our findings are documented clearly and professionally. Proper documentation can help attorneys evaluate claims, prepare filings, and approach negotiations with greater confidence. Investigative support can also reduce uncertainty and help streamline legal proceedings.

When investigative information is gathered lawfully and properly documented, it may be used to support legal proceedings. However, admissibility ultimately depends on court rules, evidentiary standards, and the specific circumstances of the case.

Our role is to ensure that all investigative activities are conducted within legal boundaries and that findings are recorded in a clear, organized manner. This includes maintaining detailed notes, timestamps, and relevant documentation that can support review by attorneys. We prioritize professionalism and legal compliance so that the information we provide is useful and defensible if needed.