A genealogist can do much more with a defined question than with a request to research an entire family at once. For example, identifying the parents of Mary Wilson, born about 1842 in Cumberland, gives the first stage a place, period and relationship to test. A larger family tree can then be tackled branch by branch.
Bring the evidence you already have
Gather certificates, family papers, photographs, DNA results, previous reports and links to online trees. Mark which details come from records and which come from family memory. Both are useful to a researcher, provided it is clear which is which. If you are still assembling the basics, the beginner's guide to starting a family tree will help.
Decide what you most want answered
Decide whether your priority is building a tree, proving one relationship, finding an unknown parent, solving a brick wall or understanding an ancestor’s life. A defined objective helps control cost and prevents the work from expanding without agreement.
Ask how the first stage will be approached
Before substantial work begins, I explain the proposed sources, likely obstacles, estimated time and limits. Genealogy cannot guarantee a particular answer because records may be missing, inaccurate or inaccessible.
Know what will come back to you
Ask what you will receive. This may include a narrative report, source citations, record images, a family tree, research log and recommendations. The report should distinguish evidence, interpretation and uncertainty.
Look at how the conclusion was reached
A good report should show why each important record belongs to the right person and explain any contradictions that affect the conclusion. The citations should be detailed enough for you or another researcher to find the source again.
Privacy and sensitive discoveries
Unknown parentage and DNA cases may reveal living relatives or unexpected relationships. Discuss confidentiality, access to DNA accounts, data handling and how sensitive results will be communicated.
Begin with a defined first stage
A short preliminary search can test record survival and refine the question before a larger commission. My main research rate is £35 per hour. Open-ended projects normally begin with five hours, followed by a review of the findings and next steps before any further time is agreed; a fixed-fee Quick Search is available for tightly defined record requests or single questions.