Finding People

Search and Investigation of Missing Persons

When someone vanishes without a trace, Investigation Hotline’s certified investigators deliver results where others hit dead ends, utilizing comprehensive fieldwork and specialized resources to reunite families and recover missing individuals.

What is a Missing Person?

A missing person is someone who has disappeared for an extended period of time, often for unknown reasons. Every year, between 70,000 and 80,000 go missing, with the majority of these cases involving children. (statistics from RCMP website)

Contrary to popular belief, a person does not have to be missing for 72 hours before being classified as a missing person by the authorities. In cases where there is evidence of violence or an unusual absence, law enforcement agencies often emphasize the importance of beginning an investigation as soon as possible, with the first 48 hours being critical. If a person has been missing for seven years with no evidence to the contrary, they can be legally declared dead.

Reasons for Searching for a Missing Person

There are various reasons for wanting to locate a missing person, including:

  • Serving legal documents on a plaintiff, defendant, or witness
  • Notifying the person of a will or inheritance
  • Searching for a lost or kidnapped individual
  • Locating a child or adult
  • Finding a debtor
  • Searching for a fugitive from justice
  • Looking for someone who did not return from work

missing person investigations

Intentional Disappearances

People disappear both deliberately and involuntarily. Intentional disappearances often involve evading legal obligations such as child support, alimony, or arrest warrants, while others flee dangerous situations or abusive relationships.

Involuntary disappearances present different challenges and can involve individuals with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or mental health conditions who become disoriented. Medical emergencies or accidents can also result in missing person cases requiring specialized skip tracing techniques.

Private Investigator has access to local and international databases

Our team will carefully evaluate each case and have access to local and international databases. We also have a professional network of colleagues in different cities, provinces, and countries who are ready to provide support if we suspect the missing person may have gone to another country. We use advanced technology to aid in our search efforts, but only highly skilled professionals with a proven track record of successful investigations can effectively find a missing person. Our priority is always to act quickly, as every minute counts for someone who may be hiding or in danger. Contact us to start the search process immediately.

FAQ about Finding People

Q1. How long should I wait before hiring a private investigator?

You don’t need to wait 24 or 48 hours like with police reports. Professional investigators can begin searching immediately using specialized databases and techniques. Investigation Hotline starts missing person cases right away to maximize chances of success.

Q2. What information do you need to start a missing person search?

We need basic details like full name, last known address, and recent photograph. Additional helpful information includes birthdates, social security numbers, and known associates. Investigation Hotline works with whatever information you have available to begin the search process.

Q3. How much does it cost to find a missing person?

Missing person investigation costs vary based on case complexity and search duration. Simple database searches cost less than extensive fieldwork investigations requiring multiple provinces. We provide transparent pricing and regular updates on Investigation Hotline cases across Ontario.

Q4. Can you find someone who doesn't want to be found?

Yes, our licensed investigators use professional skip tracing techniques and restricted databases. People leaving digital footprints through employment, utilities, or government records can typically be located. Investigation Hotline maintains high success rates even for intentional disappearances.

Q5. How long does it typically take to locate someone?

Simple cases with recent information may resolve within days or weeks. Complex cases involving old information or intentional hiding may take longer. Investigation Hotline provides realistic timelines based on available information and case specifics.

Q6. Is it legal to search for missing adults?

Yes, locating missing adults is completely legal when conducted by licensed investigators. We follow all privacy laws and use only legitimate databases and techniques. Investigation Hotline ensures all missing person searches comply with Canadian legal requirements.

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Our Experts are Here to Help

Fill out the form below and a member of our team will be in touch. We aim to respond to all inquiries within 1 business day. Alternatively, you can call us on: +1 416-205-9114 or email us directly at info@investigationhotline.org.