Frequently-Asked Questions
Deciding to Hire a Professional Genealogist
If I don’t want to do my own family history research, what are some benefits of working with a professional genealogist?
Often, individuals who want to capture their family’s history as a legacy to their children and grandchildren decide to work with a genealogist. These individuals may not have the time or desire to do their own research—which is time-consuming and can be difficult. Besides conducting accurate and efficient research to reveal a family’s story, a professional can suggest areas of focus, can recommend ways to capture and integrate family information (interviews, photos), and can recommend ways to beautifully capture and preserve the family’s story.
If I do my own genealogy research, when is the right time to get help from a professional genealogist?
Our clients who do their own research typically come to us when:
· They have a “brick wall”— Often, they are stuck trying to find the parents of an individual born before 1850.
· They need someone with specific expertise (often Ohio or other Midwest states).
· They’d like to have a professional confirm the accuracy of previous work.
· They need their research organized into a logical proof argument, possibly to submit to a lineage society.
· They need help with record types that are unfamiliar (probate, land records, naturalizations, immigration, church records, etc.)
Learn more here about why to hire a professional genealogist.
Can a professional genealogist help me find information that I couldn’t find on my own?
Yes, quite possibly. Especially for a credentialed genealogist, many years have been invested in gaining skills in a variety of record types, many of which are not online. For early projects (pre-1850), we often use deeds, tax records, and probate to attempt to identify the parents of a target individual—these records are complex and not always easy to locate. Learn more about what a professional genealogist does here.
Can you find a record that directly names a parent or child?
Maybe. We certainly try to! Usually, it is possible if the child was born post-1850. However, pre-1850, it is a lot more difficult. In that time period, the census only named a (typically) male head of household, vital records didn’t often exist, and parents were infrequently named when their children married. Sometimes, children are named in their parent’s probate file. But sometimes, we need to search broadly and assemble evidence into a proof argument that builds the case for the relationship.
How do I find a reputable and qualified genealogist?
Do your research in professional directories, interview the genealogists you are considering, and see if they have the appropriate research experience, training, and credentials. See our blog posting on this topic for more information.
What does it cost to hire a professional genealogist?
This varies depending on the type of work the genealogist is hired to do and the complexity of the project, but expect to pay $65-$100 per hour for family history work. See a discussion of the factors affecting cost here, and Heritage Bridge sample projects here.
What is forensic genealogy?
Forensic genealogy is completed for a legal purpose. Like all genealogy, it connects generations and resolves identity. However, it typically comes forward in time to find living people rather than going backward in time. Learn more about what a forensic genealogist does here. Learn more about Heritage Bridge’s work for law firms.
Tips for Working With a Professional Genealogist
How do I determine what level of service I need from a genealogist? (e.g., a comprehensive search vs. a targeted search)
A skilled genealogist can do either, but this is very dependent on the research question that you have. We recommend scheduling a consultation with the genealogists you are considering and asking for a proposal based on your research objectives. You can request a consultation with Heritage Bridge here.
How do I prepare for a consultation with a professional genealogist?
Review your tree and your previous research. Formulate your research objective. For example: Determine the parents of Joseph Shaw (1825-1895), born in Perry County, Ohio. Note any questions you may have for the genealogist. Send along any materials you have for them to review. Genealogists are very detail-oriented and generally appreciate having a chance to prepare for a consultation call with you!
What do I need to send you in terms of research I've already done?
At Heritage Bridge, we like to review the most important documents you have discovered, and also like to review your online tree. We may also ask for access to your DNA matches, if you have tested and if DNA is relevant to the project.
How much time and effort will be required on my part when working with a professional genealogist?
It depends on the services you are contracting for. Many genealogy projects are “done for you” projects, so you may not need to plan for any time after the initial calls and project kickoff, although when the work is complete, you should expect to participate in a call to discuss it. (“Done for you” for you describes most of the projects here at Heritage Bridge.) If you are contracting with a genealogist to review your tree or to help sort and organize your materials, your time commitment may be greater.
If you didn’t find the answer to your question here, please reach out and ask!