Investigative Support · Skip tracing
Skip Tracing Services in Tennessee
Skip tracing is the search for a person whose current address or contact information is unknown. DFS combines lawful database research with field confirmation by investigators.
An address that may no longer be true
People move without forwarding mail, rent under someone else's name or keep old addresses on their license. A single database hit can point to a house they left two years ago.
DFS investigators compare several sources, weigh how recent each record is, and check promising addresses in person before reporting them as current.
How a skip trace runs
- Provide identifiersSend the subject's name and any date of birth, prior address, phone or associates you have.
- Confirm purposeDFS confirms the search has a lawful, permissible purpose.
- Research and verifyInvestigators build and test leads, confirming in the field when needed.
- ReportYou receive written findings and recommended next steps.
What a skip trace includes
Database research and in-person confirmation to locate people whose current address or contact details are unknown.
- Multi-source researchLawful commercial databases and public records compared against each other.
- Record datingEach address and contact point assessed for how recent it appears.
- Field confirmationIn-person checks of the strongest leads where the engagement calls for it.
- Written findingsA report of likely addresses, how they were supported and what remains uncertain.
Limits of skip tracing
Some people cannot be located through lawful means, and DFS will say so.
- No guarantee that a subject will be found.
- No access to phone, bank, utility or other protected records without legal process.
- Field confirmation uses lawful, public-view methods only.
Questions about skip tracing
How is skip tracing different from a people-search website?
Online search sites return raw data that is often outdated. DFS investigators compare sources and confirm leads in person before reporting them.
Can you find someone with only a name?
Sometimes, but common names produce many false matches. Any added identifier, such as a birth date or old address, sharply improves accuracy.
What happens if the trace comes up empty?
DFS reports what was checked and what was ruled out, which can still be useful for a diligent search record or next steps.
Guides on this topic
Longer answers from the DFS Guides & FAQ.
Related services
Next steps and alternatives that often go with this work.
Reviewed October 2026 by Delator Field Services. General information, not legal advice.
Tell DFS what the matter needs
Call, text or email with the task, the county and any deadline. You will get a plain answer on scope and cost before work begins.
Questions first? Call or text (629) 310-8667 or email contact@delatorgroup.com.