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Routine targets a first attempt within 2–4 calendar days after we receive complete order details and all required documents. Rush adds $80 and targets a first attempt within 24 calendar hours; while the Rush assignment remains active and unsuccessful, repeat Rush attempts are normally spaced 12–36 hours apart. Same-Day begins the first attempt that same Pacific calendar day only when the complete request arrives before 2:00 p.m. Pacific and we confirm we can meet that start window.

Stakeouts are $150 per hour with a 2-hour minimum. We also try to accommodate timed serves when the requested window is realistic and lawful. Timing describes first-attempt targets, not a guarantee of completion.

Paper Monkey's published direct coverage is 20 Eastern Washington counties and 10 North and North-Central Idaho counties. A request outside that direct area is not accepted unless staff separately confirms the location, scope, timing, and price in writing.

It means we plan and document service so it’s easier to defend if challenged: correct method selection, detailed attempt notes, accurate descriptions, and proofs that match the actual events.

We’ll work hard and get creative within the rules, but we don’t cross these lines:

• No law‑enforcement impersonation, threats, or coercion.
• No forced entry, no trespass, no bypassing locked/secured access controls.
• No harassment jobs disguised as service.
• No “sewer service” or fabricated proofs—our records match reality.

If a request requires crossing a legal or ethical line, we refuse it. (See the full Ethical Refusal Policy section for detail.)

No. We can explain service options, what information we need to attempt service, and what happened during attempts. We can’t choose forms, draft pleadings, or advise you on how to litigate.

It means we plan and document service so it’s easier to defend if challenged: correct method selection, clear notes, timestamps, and a proof of service that matches the applicable rules/statutes.

Three things: transparency, documentation, and professionalism. We don’t “mystery‑box” service. You get clear updates, court‑usable proofs, and honest feedback when an address or plan isn’t working.

• Transparent communication: clear attempt updates, not vague “no answer” reports.
• Documentation-first: attempt logs, precise service details, and proofs that match reality.
• De‑escalation approach: calm, clear identification, and safe tactics over confrontation.
• Ethics-forward skip tracing: lawful sources only, with privacy in mind.

At a minimum, you will receive clear status updates and a proof/return of service that states what happened, where, when, and how service was completed (or why it could not be completed). For contested or high‑risk service, we can also provide more detailed attempt logs and supporting details, consistent with privacy and safety.

Give us a verified address AND a credible “when they’re likely there” window.

If you can provide just two things, make it these:

• Correct service address (with unit number)
• Best time window(s) based on real information (work schedule, routine, observations)

Because “123 Main St” can be 200 doors. Without a unit number, we may be unable to access the correct residence or prove we served at the correct door.

A P.O. box is usually not enough for personal service. If you only have a P.O. box, you’re typically looking at skip tracing, business registered‑agent service, or a court‑approved alternative method—not a simple doorstep delivery.

Missing attachments can make service defective or invite a motion to dismiss/quash. Send the exact packet you want served—including exhibits, notices, and required forms—before we attempt service.

Tell us. Minor spelling issues may not always defeat service, but misidentification can. Provide aliases, maiden names, and any name variations used on records so we can confirm identity confidently at the door.

Avoidance turns service into a timing and pattern problem.

Useful information (if you have it):

• Vehicle description and where it’s parked
• Work schedule / school drop‑off times / regular routines
• Known associates or likely alternate addresses (only lawful leads)
• Gate codes / building access instructions
• Prior attempt history (what worked, what didn’t)

Serving at an address that isn’t actually the person’s usual residence or leaving papers with someone who doesn’t qualify under the rule (e.g., a neighbor, random roommate, or minor).

Assuming mail service is automatically allowed. In many cases, mail service requires a specific rule, statute, court order, or acknowledgment/acceptance—and it often has strict steps (addresses, mail type, timing, proofs).

Serving the wrong person at the wrong place. Businesses usually must be served through a registered agent, an officer, or another legally authorized recipient—depending on the jurisdiction and entity type.

Forgetting witness fees/mileage (when required) or trying to use a subpoena across state lines without domestication (UIDDA).

Send the corrected information immediately so we can stop relying on the bad lead and review the next lawful step.

If you cancel your request before we accept it, we release any payment hold and refund any payment received for that request. Once we accept your order, the service fee is nonrefundable. A new address or newly authorized work may change the applicable service charge, but no mileage fee is added.