Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Welcome to our FAQ section, where we address the most common questions posed by our clients. We understand that genealogical research can raise many questions, especially when it comes to tracing ancestors in Poland or other regions. This section is designed to provide clear and detailed answers, helping you better understand our process and the services we offer. If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact us through our contact form for more information.
In brief, genealogy is the study of family history, origin, and the relationships between family members. Through genealogical research, we can uncover the stories of our ancestors and gain a deeper understanding of where we come from.
During genealogical searches, we often find birth, marriage, and death records, residential documents, military registers, and census records. This often includes extensive official documentation recorded throughout the lives of our ancestors. Additionally, the final report contains detailed descriptions of family members, copies of discovered documents, translations, explanations, and an analysis of the family’s origin and history.
In our searches, we can find military service records, documents related to decorations, complete personnel files, as well as information about the military actions in which the person participated. We can also often find documents regarding time spent in prisoner-of-war camps or military hospitals.
To start the search, we need basic information such as the name, approximate date, and place of birth. Additional details, such as the names of the parents, can greatly facilitate the search process.
Yes, information about your parents can be a sufficient starting point. We can begin our research based on that and gradually uncover earlier generations.
There is a possibility of finding information about missing relatives, especially if official documents, camp records, or deportation lists can be accessed. Each case is unique and requires an individual approach. The last known residence of your relatives and the approximate dates of their disappearance will also be crucial.
Yes, all discovered documents are translated into English. The original documents are often in Polish, Russian, German, or Latin.
Simply share with us the information you have. Even the smallest details can be crucial. Based on this information, we will propose a plan of action and determine the steps we can take to begin the research. The most important information includes names, dates, and places of birth/marriage/death, and family origin.
The free analysis includes an initial consultation, assessment of available information, and advice on the next steps. During this consultation, we will help you understand the possibilities for research and how we can assist you.
We conduct searches both in Poland and in other countries where genealogical research may require analyzing available records. We often carry out additional searches in Germany, Ukraine, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
The cost of genealogical research depends on the scope of work, the availability of documents, and the complexity of the project. We can provide a preliminary estimate after a free consultation, based on which we will determine an approximate cost of the service. The total cost depends on the availability of documents in offices and state archives, as well as the years and regions from which the specific ancestors originated.
In the initial inquiry, it is important to include the names and surnames of ancestors, estimated dates and places of birth, as well as any other known facts about the family. The more information we receive at the outset, the easier it will be to start the genealogical search.
Yes, we offer support in obtaining documents from foreign archives, particularly from countries that were formerly part of Poland or to which a significant number of people of Polish descent emigrated.
The duration of research depends on several factors, such as the availability of documents, the number of generations to trace, and the complexity of the case. Typically, research takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
Yes, we have experience in genealogical research for individuals of various ethnic backgrounds, including German, Ukrainian, Jewish, and others.
Yes, we can assist in finding the burial sites of ancestors, including identifying unknown or forgotten graves.
Yes, all discovered documents are provided to the client in the form of copies, both in electronic and paper format if required. If necessary, we also apply to the offices and archives for additional authentication or apostille.
Land records and wills can provide detailed information about family estates, land ownership, and inheritance, often shedding light on the social status and family relationships of ancestors. We offer research services that allow for the full utilization of these valuable sources.
Even in cases where key documents have been destroyed, we can often use alternative sources such as census records, court documents, or oral histories. Our experience allows us to effectively reconstruct family history, even in challenging cases.
We can assist in identifying coats of arms, finding entries in armorials, and other noble documents that confirm or shed new light on your family’s history.
Finding information about ancestors from before the 16th century is challenging but not impossible. Successful searches often require access to very old documents, such as chronicles, church records, or noble documents. The place of origin of your ancestors will be key.