What Is a Contract Genealogist?

Family tree

A genealogist is a person who studies the history and lineage of families, often tracing historical records or oral history. A contract genealogist is someone who is available for hire for this work; these professionals are hired for both complete projects on a family's history and to help someone research personal family history.

Tasks of a Contract Genealogist

Records

Some of the most common tasks of a contract genealogists include ancestor reconstructions (extensive research on a specific ancestor), missing persons location (locating a living missing relative or estranged family member), or general record search services (research centered on specific sources indicated by the client and often gone through with the client). A contract genealogist may have access to additional resources and has the expertise to interpret any confusing documents that the amateur genealogist does not.

The Professional Genealogist

Professional

A professional genealogist is either very experienced with researching family linage or is certified as a genealogist. However, anyone may use this title; there is no regulation by an outside source to assure the professional genealogist's accreditation, certifications or experience. As with the title "licensed genealogist," the title of professional genealogist does not mean the genealogist holds any special certification. But it also does not mean she is unskilled.

The Certified Genealogist

Certificates

A certified genealogist has satisfactorily completed the test given by the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG), which is administered primarily in the United States and Canada. The BCG was established in 1964 and determines certification by a portfolio submitted by the genealogist and weighed against the BCG Genealogical Standards Manual. The BCG emphasizes a strict code of conduct and ethics and requires certification to be renewed every five years.

The Accredited Genealogist

Following the family line

An accredited genealogist has passed the test given by the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPG), which emphasizes both theoretical knowledge of research methods and the practical application of interpreting documents. This accreditation must be renewed every five years. Those who pass this test must sign a code of ethics. Established in 1964, the ICAPG was founded by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but it was transferred out of the church into a full accreditation program in 2000.

How to Choose

Those who want to hire a contract genealogist should note that it is not necessary to become accredited or certified to be a genealogist and that genealogists with accreditation or certification are not guaranteed to be exceptionally skilled. Know precisely the role you wish the genealogist to take in your project before hiring. For example, you may need a genealogist who is well versed in reconstructing ancestors from the Civil War or one who can decipher handwriting. It is your responsibility to look into a genealogist's previous projects to determine if he is suitable for your project.

References

• Board for Certification of Genealogists: Home Page
• International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists: Home Page