"We inherit from our ancestors, gifts so often taken for granted.
Each of us contains within, this inheritance of soul.
We are links between the ages, containing past and present expectations,
sacred memories and future promise.”

- EDWARD SELLNER

Terms of engagement

• Before beginning any work, Historic Paths will consult with you to confirm we are in agreement about your research objectives.
• It is the client’s responsibility to ensure that relevant previously researched information is supplied to Historic Paths before the commencement of any work, to avoid unnecessary repetition of research. All information provided by the client will be handled confidentially. 
• Whilst we do endeavour to make a quick confirmation that any information supplied by the client forms a solid foundation from which to commence research, Historic Paths is not responsible for the accuracy of any work that is not undertaken by us.
• Historic Paths will adhere strictly to the agreed time blocks commissioned and will not extend commissions without consultation and agreement with the client. All findings will be clearly documented including source citations. Any research problems will be explained and suggestions are also given on further possible research avenues.
• Genealogical research can be unpredictable and is reliant on the existence, accuracy, and content of a variety of archives. It is to be understood that all research whether fruitful or not, still forms part of billable hours. The nature of research is that it often moves in increments, so be advised that completion sometimes takes longer than clients might wish.  Sometimes, there are wait times involved in accessing documents, and this can mean delays in moving forward until vital information can be accessed. At other times records are missing or contain omissions that may lead to not being able to conclusively move forward with your research objectives.  This process is similar to detective work, but aimed at the past, so it is reliant on what can be located and identified to uncover your family story.
• As a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, we are governed by the APGA Code of Ethics. All work is completed to Genealogical Proof Standards, and your confidentiality, and that of your data, are treated with the utmost sensitivity at all times. The personal information of all persons living or non-living will be not be given to third parties without the clients' approval.
• Billable time includes time spent in client consultation, all research, analysis of findings, and report writing. Electronic files will be supplied free of charge, along with one hard copy of your report. Copies of any records, extensive photocopying of large files, or specialist third-party copying services will be billed upon consultation.
• At all stages of your research, I will consult with you in advance to discuss possible extra charges that may be incurred to uncover the information that is required. You are ultimately in control at all stages and can choose whether or not to proceed.
• For new clients, a retainer of 20% (or two hours) is required at the commencement of work.
• All reports supplied by the researcher are under the copyright of the Historic Paths, and must not be reproduced, amended, or published without prior written consent. Extra copies can be requested.
• Payments can be made via Pay Pal, Bank Transfer or Credit card.

 
Where applicable additional costs may include:

• Ordering of Original Birth, Marriage, or Death Certificates if required. (Charged at cost).
• Copies of other documents where a third-party fee is incurred. (Charged at cost).
• Travel expenses (if any required). Eg: Visits to archives, graveyards, or other essential research-related locations. (All will be consulted with you prior).
• Specialist archive lookups required by a third party.

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