Privacy & Ethics

A plain-language approach to privacy and confidentiality

I respect the privacy of the people who contact me and the sensitive nature of genealogical research, particularly when DNA evidence and living individuals are involved.

This page explains what information I collect, how it is used, and how it is handled.

Information I collect

If you contact me through the website, I may collect:

• Your name and email address
• Information you choose to share about your research question
• Links to family trees or documents you provide
• Information about DNA testing, if relevant

I do not collect information unrelated to evaluating or conducting genealogical research.

How information is used

Information you provide is used solely to:

• Evaluate whether your research question is a good fit
• Communicate with you about your inquiry
• Conduct genealogical research if we agree to work together

I do not sell, share, or repurpose personal information.

DNA data and sensitive information

When DNA results or match access are shared, they are reviewed solely for research purposes related to the agreed project.

I follow established professional ethical standards regarding confidentiality, informed use of DNA evidence, and respect for living individuals.

DNA data, match access, and research findings are handled privately and are not shared, published, or reused. I expect research results to be used responsibly and not posted publicly in full, particularly when living people are involved.

Storage, retention, and disposal of records

Client materials, including documents, family trees, and DNA-related information, are stored securely using password-protected systems and reputable cloud-based services. Access is limited to what is necessary to evaluate and conduct research.

I retain research materials and correspondence for a reasonable period in order to support ongoing or follow-up work. This may include maintaining research notes, reports, and supporting documentation after a project is completed.

If you prefer that your materials be deleted after project completion, you may request this in writing.

When materials are no longer needed, they are removed from active systems and storage in a secure manner. Any physical documents, if applicable, are securely discarded.

Third-party services

This site may rely on basic third-party services for functionality (such as email delivery or form handling). These services are used only to support communication and are not provided with information beyond what is necessary for that purpose.

I do not use advertising or marketing trackers to profile visitors. I do use basic website analytics to understand overall site usage.

Geographic scope

I am based in the United States and primarily work with U.S.-based clients. This site is not intended to solicit work governed by non-U.S. data protection regimes.

Changes to this policy

This privacy policy may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in my practices or applicable requirements.

Any updates will be posted on this page with a revised effective date. Continued use of the site after changes are posted indicates acceptance of the updated policy.

Questions

If you have questions about privacy or how your information is handled, you are welcome to ask before sharing sensitive materials.

Please use the contact form to get in touch.

Effective date: May 2026