FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

1) How do I begin a research project with Ky-Tn Research Associates?

2) What information will Ky-Tn Research Associates require from me?

3) How much time will my research request require?

4) What if I am unhappy with the work done by Ky-Tn Research Associates?

5) What will I receive for my money?

1)How do I begin a research project with Ky-Tn Research Associates?

You begin by selecting one of the researchers (Gail Miller or J. Mark Lowe) and contacting them by mail, e-mail or telephone to make sure they can handle your specific request. Then they will ask you to describe your research goal or question for this request. The researcher will ask you to send all documentation you have collected (all material will be returned) that will assist in this research request. The researcher will also ask about limitations regarding time or financial limits on this request. You will then be asked to send 50% of the research fee for the researcher to begin.

2) What information will Ky-Tn Research Associates require from me?

The researcher will ask that you send all relevant materials for the research request. Transcriptions or copies of census enumerations, family bibles, wills and probate records, deeds, marriage and other vital records, court records and biographies might be included in this package.The purpose of this request is to provide the researcher with the most complete information about the family being researched. The researcher does not want to redo work that has been done previously by the client or other researcher. A list of sources checked with results is also a very helpful tool for the researcher. Ky-Tn Research Associates will also need contact information to supply the research report and documentation, and for possible questions during the research period. Ky-Tn Research Associates will not share your information with any outside persons without your direct permission.

3) How much time will my research request require?

The time it takes to complete a research request depends on the following conditions:

• Specific nature of request
• Availability of records to complete request
• Condition of records

A simple, specific request can usually be completed more quickly than a complex family request. Occasionally the records needed to complete a request are not indexed, and may require reference to multiple records for use. (i.e. Case dockets, Reverse Indexes to Deeds) In addition, if records are fragile or in poor condition, it may be difficult to read the record and more fragile care will be needed in handling and copying (transcribing or abstracting).

Each research request in unique and varies in its complexity and goal. The researcher will do their best to help you in estimating the time it takes to complete your request. But remember, it is not possible to complete every request. The information may not be available or might be inconclusive. We suggest that you begin your research with a limit of 4 - 10 hours so that you can get an idea of the researcher's skill and style.

4) What if I am unhappy with the work done by Ky-Tn Research Associates?

Although we doubt you will be unhappy with our work, it is always possible that a client and researcher might have disagreements over the work performed. Both Gail Miller and J. Mark Lowe are members of the Association of Professional Genealogists and adhere to their Code of Ethics. The APG does have an Professional Review Committee for use by its members and their clients. For further information see "So You're Going to Hire a Professional Genealogist."

5) What will I receive for my money?

Research fees cover Problem Analysis, Research, Compilation and Expenses. You will receive a report detailing the request, the records searched, the information contained, a summary of the research, and (if appropriate) a research plan for continuation. You will also receive all documentation covered in the report. (unless otherwise requested)

If you have additional questions, please feel free to address them to one of the researchers:

Back to Main Page