Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Unlock the secrets of your past with cutting-edge genetic analysis. Dive deep into your heritage and uncover connections you never knew existed.
Questions about Genetic Genealogy?
What is genetic genealogy?
Genetic genealogy uses DNA testing alongside traditional family history research to identify biological relationships and build family trees.
How is genetic genealogy different from traditional genealogy?
Traditional genealogy relies on records such as birth certificates, census records, and wills. Genetic genealogy adds DNA evidence that can confirm, refute, or discover biological connections.
What DNA tests are used in genetic genealogy?
The most common tests are:
- Autosomal DNA
- Y-DNA (paternal line)
- Mitochondrial DNA (maternal line)
Which DNA testing company should I use?
Popular options include AncestryDNA, 23andMe, FamilyTreeDNA, and MyHeritage DNA. The best choice depends on your goals and where your relatives are likely to have tested. But before you have it done, discuss it with your assigned case worker first.
Can DNA testing help me find unknown relatives?
Yes. DNA matches can identify biological parents, grandparents, siblings, cousins, and other relatives.
How accurate are DNA matches?
Close relationships are usually identified with high confidence. More distant relationships may require additional research and record analysis.
Can genetic genealogy help with adoption searches?
Yes. Genetic genealogy is commonly used to identify biological family members for adoptees and others seeking unknown relatives.
Will DNA testing tell me my complete family tree?
No. DNA is one tool. Building a family tree still requires documentary research and analysis.
What happens if my DNA results reveal unexpected family relationships?
Unexpected findings can occur, including unknown parentage, donor conception, misattributed parentage, or previously unknown siblings.
How long does a genetic genealogy project take?
Simple cases may be resolved in days or weeks, while complex cases can take months.
Questions About Forensic Genealogy
What is forensic genealogy?
Forensic genealogy combines DNA analysis, genealogical research, and historical records to identify unknown individuals or investigate biological relationships in legal or investigative contexts.
What is investigative genetic genealogy (IGG)?
Investigative genetic genealogy uses DNA databases and genealogical research to generate leads in criminal investigations or unidentified human remains cases.
Is forensic genealogy the same as genetic genealogy?
No. Genetic genealogy is generally used for personal family history research. Forensic genealogy applies similar methods to legal, investigative, or identification purposes.
What types of cases can forensic genealogy help solve?
Examples include:
- Unidentified human remains
- Unknown parentage
- Adoption-related investigations
- Military repatriation cases
- Historical identifications
- Cold cases
Does forensic genealogy provide definitive proof of identity?
Not by itself. It generates leads and evidence that are typically combined with additional DNA testing, records, and investigative work.
Are law enforcement agencies allowed to use genealogy databases?
Some databases allow law enforcement access under specific conditions and user consent policies. Rules vary by platform and jurisdiction.
Which DNA databases are used in forensic genealogy?
Examples include GEDmatch and FamilyTreeDNA, subject to their policies and user consent settings.
How successful is forensic genealogy?
Success depends on DNA quality, database coverage, available records, and the complexity of the case.
Can forensic genealogy be used in court?
It may contribute evidence or investigative leads, but admissibility and evidentiary value depend on the jurisdiction and case circumstances.
How are privacy concerns addressed in forensic genealogy?
Researchers must follow applicable laws, database terms of service, ethical guidelines, and consent requirements.
What records are used alongside DNA evidence?
Researchers may use:
- Birth records
- Death records
- Census records
- Obituaries
- Newspapers
- Property records
- Military records
- Court records
How long does a forensic genealogy investigation take?
Cases can range from a few weeks to many months depending on available evidence and research complexity.
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