We follow a structured, five-stage research process designed to maximize results, maintain accuracy, and keep you informed at every step of your family history investigation.
We begin with a detailed intake questionnaire that collects everything you already know about your family: names, dates, locations, immigration stories, and any documents in your possession. A 30-minute consultation call follows to discuss your research goals, the family lines of greatest interest, and any specific questions you want answered. This stage ensures we focus our research time on the areas most likely to yield results for you personally.
Based on your family data and goals, we develop a written research plan that identifies the specific record sets to be searched, the repositories that hold them, and the evidence questions each search is designed to answer. A good research plan prevents duplication of effort and ensures we approach the investigation systematically rather than randomly. We share the plan with you and adjust it based on your feedback before beginning active research.
Our researcher conducts the searches identified in the research plan, accessing records through major online platforms, national and state archives, county courthouses, and specialized repositories as needed. Every record found is documented with a complete source citation. When a search yields no results, this is documented as well — negative evidence is valuable information. We contact you if a significant discovery requires new direction or if we reach a point where your input would help guide the research.
With research complete, we analyze the collected evidence by evaluating the information quality of each source, correlating data from multiple records, and resolving any conflicting evidence. This is the stage where apparent contradictions — two different birth years for the same person, for example — are examined carefully and resolved or explained. Our conclusions at this stage meet the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) wherever the available evidence allows.
We deliver a comprehensive written research report that summarizes what we found, documents every source consulted (including unsuccessful searches), presents our conclusions with the evidence that supports them, and identifies remaining research questions and suggested next steps. Digital copies of all documents found are included. A follow-up call allows you to ask questions about the report, and we remain available by email for clarifying questions for 30 days after delivery.
Your family data and personal information are kept strictly confidential. We do not share your information with third parties or add your family data to any public database without your explicit written permission.
Every finding is supported by source citations and document copies. You receive a complete research package that allows independent verification of every conclusion — the hallmark of professional genealogical research.
Family history research rarely has a clean ending. We offer continued research sessions for clients who want to extend their investigation, and we provide referrals to specialized researchers for areas outside our primary expertise.