Red Flags to Watch for When Choosing a Genealogist for Probate Cases
Probate matters can become complex when beneficiaries are missing, heirs are difficult to trace, or records are incomplete.
Many private client teams, Court of Protection departments, councils, and hospitals rely on genealogists to locate and verify rightful beneficiaries.
However, not all genealogists are equally reliable. Choosing the wrong professional can lead to delays, errors, or even legal complications.
✅ Here are some key red flags to watch for:
1️⃣ Lack of verifiable experience in probate cases
Genealogy isn’t just about building a family tree. For probate matters, a genealogist must understand legal deadlines, evidentiary requirements, and verification processes. Ask for case studies or references that demonstrate successful probate work.
2️⃣ Poor understanding of compliance and regulation
Probate involves sensitive personal data. Professionals who don’t demonstrate awareness of data protection, GDPR, and legal compliance may expose you or the estate to risk.
3️⃣ Limited communication or slow response times
Probate cases are time-sensitive. A genealogist who is difficult to contact or slow to provide updates can create unnecessary delays for clients and executors.
4️⃣ Over-promising results or guaranteeing outcomes
No genealogist can guarantee they will locate every heir, particularly in complex or international cases. Promises that sound “too good to be true” often are. Transparency about potential challenges is crucial.
5️⃣ Lack of collaboration with legal teams
Private client teams, councils, hospitals, and Court of Protection departments need genealogists who work alongside solicitors and administrators. If a genealogist appears unwilling to provide documentation in a legally accepted format, this is a warning sign.
✅ How Harrisons Genealogy Solutions Can Help
At Harrisons Genealogy Solutions, we specialise in assisting legal teams with probate matters, ensuring:
- Comprehensive beneficiary tracing across the UK and internationally
- Full legal compliance and proper documentation
- Regular, clear updates for legal and administrative teams
- Collaboration with private client, Court of Protection, council, and hospital teams
Partnering with a trusted genealogy service ensures your probate matters progress efficiently, reducing delays and risk.
speak to the Harrisons Genealogy Solutions Team today to find out more. Call 01923 943499, or email
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