Wondering how a search works, what it costs, or what the archives can still tell you? Here are the answers to the questions I am asked most often. If yours is not listed, write to me: I reply personally within 2 business days.
Can I research my family tree myself?
Yes, many people start on their own, and a lot of records are available online. In Moselle, though, things get tricky quickly: parish registers in Latin, civil records in German between 1871 and 1918, families expelled in 1940, and sources scattered across several archives. I help you get past those obstacles, save time, and check every source. And if you would rather carry on by yourself, I am happy to point you in the right direction.
How does the first contact work?
It is simple and there is no commitment. Send me a few words about your project (contact form or email). I reply personally within 2 business days to clarify your request and suggest an approach, with timing and budget. A first 30-minute conversation is free, and you decide what happens next.
Is your research reliable?
All my research is based on official archives: civil records, parish registers, military records and censuses. Every piece of information is linked to its source and cross-checked whenever the archives allow it. When something remains uncertain, I tell you plainly, so you always know what is proven and what is not yet. Results naturally depend on which records have survived.
I live abroad. Is that a problem?
Not at all. Some of my clients live outside France. Everything is done remotely, by email, phone or video call; your report can be written in English on request. Payment from abroad is made by bank transfer or Wise, with bank fees paid by the client. I search the archives on your behalf and send you your file digitally, or on paper if you prefer.
Can you help with a citizenship by descent application?
I search for the records that such applications often require: birth, marriage and death records, and the links between generations. Final eligibility is decided by the authorities of the country concerned, so I always recommend checking their exact requirements first. Tell me what you need and I will confirm whether the archives can supply it.
How much does a search cost?
A tailored investigation starts at €150, a single-line search (four generations) at €210, and the all-inclusive packages from €380 (Discovery), €690 (Heritage) and €990 (Legacy). The final price depends on complexity: number of generations, families expelled in 1940, records in German. For research billed by the hour, my rate is €55 per hour for clients in France and €85 per hour for clients outside France. You receive a detailed quote before anything starts. For services up to €150, full payment is due when you order; above €150, a 30% deposit launches the research and the balance is due on delivery. VAT not applicable, art. 293 B of the French tax code.
How long does a search take?
Usually 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the case. Research on families expelled in 1940 can take a little longer. The quote gives you a precise estimate, and I keep you updated at each stage.
Do you look after graves?
Yes, with discretion and respect for the monument: gentle cleaning with suitable products, seasonal flowers on request, and a check of the grave’s general condition. If the stone is fragile, I ask for your agreement before doing anything, and bad weather may delay the visit. You receive a report with before-and-after photos. Grave maintenance starts at €150, with 3-, 6- or 12-month plans.
What if we find something difficult?
Family history sometimes contains silences or painful chapters. I guide you with care: you decide how far you want to go, and I present the facts with sensitivity, never forcing a revelation.
What if the archives yield nothing?
It can happen, since some records are incomplete or destroyed. You then receive a report of the sources consulted, with leads for the next steps. The 30% deposit (or, for services up to €150, the amount paid when ordering) covers the work already done, and no balance is due.