Researching family history

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions,
Answered

Everything you need to know about our research services — from how genetic genealogy works to what happens after your consultation.

Every family has a story. Our work is finding the evidence that tells it truthfully.

We offer three levels of research services: Basic Genealogy Research, Advanced Genealogy Research, and Genetic Genealogy Research. Each is tailored to the complexity of your case — from building out a family tree to resolving questions of unknown parentage using DNA analysis. Not sure which is right for you? We offer a free consultation to help you find the best fit.
Traditional genealogy relies on records such as vital documents, census data, and family trees to trace ancestry. Genetic genealogy incorporates DNA analysis alongside those records to answer questions that documents alone cannot — such as identifying biological relatives, confirming parentage, or breaking through long-standing research dead ends. We combine both methods to provide the most accurate and complete picture possible.
Every case begins with a free consultation. This gives us the opportunity to discuss your goals, understand the details of your situation, and determine which type of research is the best fit for your needs. You can schedule your consultation directly through our website.
Yes. In addition to working with individuals and families, we assist agencies with investigative genetic genealogy cases, including unidentified remains. Our founder, Elisa Leasure, completed specialized investigative genetic genealogy training at Ramapo College and brings that expertise to complex, sensitive cases with the same discretion and attention to detail applied to every client.
Once we've identified the right service for your needs, you'll receive a research agreement outlining the scope of work. After the agreement is signed and payment is received, research begins. Depending on your service, you'll receive either a 1-page summary report (Basic) or a detailed research report (Advanced and Genetic), along with source citations and digital copies of any relevant records located. For Advanced Research clients, we can also update an existing Ancestry tree with key documented findings upon request. We'll keep you informed throughout the process and reach out if we need anything from you along the way.
Each service is built around a defined block of professional research time — 5 hours for Basic Genealogy Research, 10 hours for Advanced Genealogy Research, and 8 hours for Genetic Genealogy Research. The time it takes to complete that research and deliver your report will depend on the complexity of your case and current scheduling. During your consultation, we'll give you a realistic estimate based on your specific situation.
Each service package includes a set number of research hours — 5, 10, or 8 hours depending on the service selected. If your case requires additional research beyond that scope, we will contact you before proceeding with any extra work. You'll have the opportunity to review the situation and decide how you'd like to move forward. There are no surprise charges — any additional research is always discussed and agreed upon with you first.
Genealogical research doesn't always guarantee a definitive answer. Records can be incomplete, unavailable, or destroyed, and DNA matches are not always sufficient to draw firm conclusions. If we reach the limits of what the available evidence can tell us, we will be straightforward with you about what was found, what obstacles were encountered, and what options, if any, may still exist. Every report includes recommended next steps when applicable, so you'll always leave with a clear picture of where things stand and where you might go from here.