I am a Professional Genealogist, and I also use other Professional Genealogists to assist me with my work or research. Professional Genealogists use a large network of other professionals in their work. If you are having trouble with your research, there are a few things you can do.
1. Start by writing a specific query to your problem on a message board like this one. Choose a board by Surname or locality (US, State, County, or other country) Be specific with your question as you possibly can and give details that help someone help you. You don't want someone wasting time searching for info you already have or may be a different party.
2. You can contact a local Genealogical Society, Club, Library or Historical Society in the area that you researching. Be as specific as you can about what you are hoping to accomplish - include details. Societies often help and are generally affordable - extra fees may be for copies of documents, etc.
3. To find a professional genealogist in the area that you are researching-look to the APG website. (Association of Professional Genealogist) they have a directory with states and towns, countries, etc. Beside the names will be a question if they take clients or not. Not all do. Send them an email or check out their website if they have one. Ask for their fees. Fees will vary according the area, their experience and type of work that they do.
APG Professionals go through extensive training and constantly update their educational experience so they use that expertise in their work - that is what makes them stand apart from a hobbiest. You want a professional who uses the BCG Genealogical Standard so their work can stand up to review if necessary. Not all professional genealogists are Certified Genealogists (CG). Certified means they have taken the BCG (Board of Certified Genealogist) certification and passed. CG's and APG Members are bound by a code of ethics. Most will want a contract agreement signed before being hired. This is for the client's benefit as well as for the Professional. That way both parties know what is expected and hopefully a wonderful client/pro relationship will ensue.
Good luck, let us know what you choose to do and then how it turns out.
Lauri Russell, APG Member
Professional Genealogist
Need research in FL? Email me.
My resources are not limited to FL.
rivercityresearcher@gmail.com