If the client agrees to the proposed research project, they will be agreeing to my terms of service:

• The research project’s goals, parameters, and scheduling should be agreed upon and set into writing, in the form of a contract which the client must sign. Whether or not the contract is legally binding, it serves as the formal agreement between the client and me.

• Once the research goals are agreed upon, the client cannot redirect the project except to make small, approved adjustments.

• The schedule and fees of the research project cannot be changed once a contract between the client and me has been signed except to extend the working hours for a project.

• As a researcher, I follow the Genealogical Proof Standards (GPS) as written by the Board for the Certification of Genealogists. These standards ensure high-quality research and truthful, ethical reporting. If the client feels that my work has violated one of these standards, they may submit a complaint, in writing, to me or the Board.

• Upon delivery of the research report(s) and other product(s), the client acquires free use of the information and writing they contain. Creative credit (to me) is not required but appreciated. However, please do not attribute my work to another person, party, or service.

• I reserve the right to use the project (minus any sensitive information, see below) for self-promotion on my website, social media platforms, resumes and biographies, and in other writing projects.

• If I encounter sensitive or personal information in my research, I will report it to the client as part of the research report. However, the client maintains the right to flag any information as “sensitive” or “personal” and therefore protected from distribution. This must be expressed in writing and agreed upon within thirty (30) days after the project’s completion.

• If I uncover any historical evidence that may be considered unethical or incriminating, I have a duty to report it to legal authorities. I will alert the client should this occur.

• After the completion of the project, the client may be called upon to give a voluntary reference of my services.

The following disclaimers also apply to research projects I undertake:

• Some research goals may not be met, due to the nature of available historic documentation. I will do my best to meet the goals outlined at the beginning of the project but cannot make allowances for information or resources that do not exist.

• Due to a number of factors (distance, accessibility, time constraints), I may not be able to examine every possible source needed to complete the project. Sources that I have identified but cannot examine will be noted and described in the research report.

• I will do my best to meet the research goals in the time frame agreed upon. However, due to the fluid nature of research projects, time may not allow for all avenues to be thoroughly explored. If I believe that there is the potential for more research in the future, this will be detailed in the research report.

• I cannot make allowances for historical information that is unexpected or unpleasant to the client. I will report all information as I uncover it. If a client is concerned about receiving sensitive or disturbing information as a result of the research project, this can be discussed privately and accommodations made.