DNA can reveal biological connections that documents alone cannot show, but a match list is not a conclusion. Reliable genetic genealogy combines match analysis, family-tree reconstruction, shared centimorgan evidence and documentary research.
DNA research may help with
- Unknown parent or grandparent questions
- Adoption and donor-conception research
- Confirming or challenging a documented lineage
- Identifying the common ancestor behind a match cluster
- Separating maternal and paternal match groups
- Breaking through a documentary brick wall
The research process
The work may involve grouping matches, comparing shared matches, building descendant trees, testing ages and locations, and seeking records that support or disprove a proposed relationship. The strength of a conclusion depends on the available matches, their trees, the relevant generations and record survival.
Privacy and expectations
DNA information is sensitive, and I handle it discreetly. No outcome can be guaranteed, and unexpected discoveries are possible. Before research begins, I explain what access or exports may be needed and what the evidence can realistically establish.
Documentary confirmation
Wherever possible, genetic conclusions are supported with birth, marriage, death, census, parish, probate or other records. The aim is a reasoned conclusion, not simply a predicted relationship label.