Key Services:
Unknown & Missing Relatives:
Advanced research techniques to identify, trace, and contact living relatives.
Use of DNA resources, archival materials, and historical records for confirmation.
Sensitivity and discretion in reuniting families or establishing next of kin connections.
Probate & Heir Research:
Investigation and verification of family relationships for estate and probate proceedings.
Locating missing or unknown heirs for attorneys, trust administrators, and executors.
Preparation of lineage documentation and evidentiary affidavits.
Family History Research:
Comprehensive ancestral research projects for individuals and organizations.
Lineage mapping, family tree creation, and historical documentation.
Specialized research in regional, ethnic, and migration studies.
Consultation Services:
Personalized consultations for clients conducting their own genealogical research.
Assistance with interpreting records, sourcing primary documentation, and structuring investigations.
Advising on best practices for documentation, preservation, and digital archiving.
Educational Lectures & Workshops:
Customized presentations for community groups, libraries, genealogical societies, and academic institutions.
Topics include research methods, record interpretation, genetic genealogy, and navigating archives.
Focus on fostering skills and awareness in historical and genealogical research.
When partnering with a professional genealogist, such as those at Hunting Forebears Genealogical Services, LLC, you should expect a high standard of transparency and diligence. Our engagement process is built upon the following professional pillars:
Formal Service Agreements
Every project begins with a comprehensive written contract. This document serves as a roadmap for the engagement and clearly defines:
- Project Scope: A specific outline of the genealogical objectives to be addressed.
- Fee Structure: A transparent breakdown of applicable rates and billing procedures.
- Billable Standards: Clear definitions of what constitutes active research hours.
- Communication: A commitment to maintaining open dialogue throughout the duration of the project.
Research Standards & Deliverables
We ensure that all investigations are exhaustive and align strictly with the agreed-upon scope. Upon completion, you will receive a sophisticated Final Research Report, which includes:
- Source Citations: A meticulous list of all archives and records consulted.
- Comprehensive Findings: Detailed reporting of both positive discoveries and negative results (proving a record does not exist).
- Expert Analysis: A professional interpretation of the data and its implications for your lineage.
- Supporting Documentation: High-quality copies, abstracts, or transcriptions of all relevant documents.
- Strategic Recommendations: Suggested next steps for future research based on our findings.
Financial Transparency
Services are billed at an hourly rate encompassing record review, active research, data analysis, and report synthesis.
Incidental Expenses: Any additional costs—including repository rentals, duplication fees, postage, travel, or document procurement—are billed in addition to the hourly rate. All such expenses are subject to your prior review and approval.
Account Finalization
To ensure a seamless conclusion to our partnership, any remaining balance must be settled in full prior to the release of the final report. Conversely, any unused portion of a pre-paid retainer will be promptly reimbursed upon delivery of the completed project.