From Brick Walls to DNA Mysteries: Why Hiring a Genetic Genealogist Can Help

Are you hitting a dead end in your family history research? Maybe you’ve taken a DNA test and now have hundreds of matches you can’t make sense of. The truth is, even the most dedicated family historian eventually reaches a point where DIY research isn’t enough. That’s when it may be time to hire a genetic genealogist—someone trained to untangle the genetic and historical evidence.

Asking for help in your research is not a weakness but a better use of your time!

1. You've Hit a Genealogy Brick Wall That Won't Budge

The Problem: You've been stuck on the same ancestor for months (or years), despite trying every record source you can find.

Why This Happens: Traditional genealogy research has limitations. Records may be lost, destroyed, or simply never existed. Some families deliberately obscured their histories.

How a Professional Helps: Genetic genealogists use DNA analysis to bypass missing records entirely. By analyzing your DNA matches and building mirror family trees, we can often identify ancestors even when no paper trail exists. Their is a limit to DNA results but if your target is within 5 generations, we have a good chance of finding them.

Real Example: The client's grandfather had no documentation other than a wedding license and a common name. Using DNA matches, we were able to identify him and his actual name and family. The client has now connected with that family and is sharing pictures and stories.

2. Your DNA Test Results Are Overwhelming or Confusing

The Problem: You have hundreds of DNA matches but can't figure out how they connect to your family tree.

Why This Happens: DNA testing companies give you so many matches and may suggest a relationship. Those genetic relationships provided are simple and based on known cM sharing. They are never meant to be the final, definitive answer unless it is a very close relationship like siblings, or parent/child. It takes knowledge of the human element, along with looking for that which doesn't belong, to surface the truth sometimes.

How a Professional Helps: Professional genetic genealogists analyze your DNA segments, identify which matches share common ancestors, and build hypotheses about family relationships that can be tested and verified.

3. You're an Adoptee Searching for Biological Family

The Problem: Adoption records are sealed, and you don't know where to start your search.

Why This Happens: Traditional genealogy methods rely on known family information, which adoptees typically don't have.

How a Professional Helps: Genetic genealogy is revolutionizing adoption research. Through careful analysis of DNA matches and advanced research techniques, professional genealogists can often identify biological parents and siblings even with limited starting information.

This work requires sensitivity, expertise, and understanding of the emotional journey involved.

4. You Suspect There's a "Family Secret" or Non-Paternity Event

The Problem: Your DNA results don't match your documented family tree, suggesting unexpected parentage somewhere in your lineage.

Why This Happens: Family histories sometimes contain gaps or inaccuracies due to adoption, infidelity, or other circumstances that weren't openly discussed.

How a Professional Helps: Genetic genealogists can discreetly investigate these sensitive situations, determining where the genetic break occurs and helping you understand your true biological heritage while respecting family privacy.

Working together can solve mysteries!

The Value of Professional Expertise

DIY genealogy research is incredibly rewarding, but some cases require professional training in:

• DNA analysis and interpretation

• Advanced research methodologies

• Access to specialized databases and records

• Experience with complex family situations

• Objectivity and analytical thinking

• Faster results

Ready for Professional Help?

If you’re stuck at a brick wall, overwhelmed by DNA matches, or searching for unknown family, a professional genetic genealogist can help. I offer a free 30-minute consultation so we can evaluate your project and determine the best next steps.

Contact me for help!