Genealogical Research Document

Genealogical Research Document

Parties

Recitals

WHEREAS, Client Name: desires genealogical and historical research services to locate, document and assemble genealogical records, lineage evidence, and related findings; and

WHEREAS, Researcher Name: represents that the researcher has experience, access to appropriate sources, and capacity to perform the described research on the terms set forth in this document; and

WHEREAS, the parties wish to set forth the scope, fees, schedule, and legal terms governing the provision of genealogical research services.

Scope of Work

The Researcher shall perform genealogical research and related services as specifically described below, including identification of sources, citation of records, preparation of narrative reports, and delivery of copies of primary and secondary documents obtained on Client's behalf. Services shall be performed in a professional manner consistent with accepted genealogical standards.

Payment Terms

Client agrees to pay the Researcher for services and reasonable expenses in accordance with the schedule set forth below. Fees are exclusive of costs for third-party record fees, copy charges, travel, courier, or other disbursements unless expressly included.

Late payments shall accrue interest at the rate of on any unpaid balance per month, or the maximum allowed by applicable law, whichever is less. The Client shall pay all collection costs, including reasonable attorney fees, if applicable.

Term and Termination

This Agreement commences on the Start Date and continues until completion of the services or the End Date, unless earlier terminated as provided herein.

Start Date: • End Date:

Either party may terminate this Agreement for convenience by providing days written notice. Termination for material breach entitles the non-breaching party to terminate immediately upon written notice if the breach remains uncured for days after notice. Upon termination, Client shall pay for work performed and expenses incurred through the effective date of termination.

Confidentiality

The parties acknowledge that Research may involve sensitive personal data and confidential family information. Each party shall treat confidential information as nonpublic and shall not disclose it to third parties except as required by law or as necessary to perform the services. Confidential information does not include information that is or becomes public through no fault of the receiving party.

Client consents to the Researcher using client-provided materials and pursuing records from third-party repositories as necessary to perform the scope of work. Client authorizes Researcher to obtain records that require a familial or client authorization where permitted by the record custodian.

Deliverables, Records, and Use

The Researcher will provide the Client with written reports, research logs, copies of sourced records, and where applicable, a narrative summary of findings. Digital copies will be delivered in formats agreed between the parties. The Researcher retains research notes and work product; ownership and transfer of copyrights or usage rights shall be as follows:

The Researcher represents that sources cited will be documented to the extent reasonably practicable. The Researcher does not guarantee the outcome of lineage conclusions or eligibility for any entitlement; conclusions are based upon available evidence and interpretation.

Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the Researcher retains copyright in original research materials and narrative reports. Client is granted a non-exclusive license to use, reproduce, and distribute deliverables for personal, family, or non-commercial purposes. Transfer or publication for commercial purposes requires the Researcher's prior written consent and may be subject to additional fees.

Warranties; Limitation of Liability

Researcher warrants that services will be performed with reasonable professional care. Except for the foregoing warranty, services are provided "as is" and Researcher disclaims all other warranties, express or implied. In no event shall Researcher's aggregate liability exceed the total fees paid by Client under this Agreement. Neither party shall be liable for consequential, incidental, or special damages.

Governing Law

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction specified below, without regard to conflict-of-law principles.

Entire Agreement

This Agreement, together with any written attachments or addenda signed by both parties, constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings, whether written or oral. Any modification to this Agreement must be in writing and signed by both parties.

Miscellaneous Provisions

If any provision of this Agreement is held unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. The parties agree to execute further instruments and to take further actions as may be reasonably necessary to carry out the purposes and intent of this Agreement.

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