Genealogists in Illinois

RULES & SOURCE GUIDANCE

Understand which requirements apply

The National Archives provides routes to independent research assistance. A researcher appearing in a directory is not a guarantee of results; agree on scope, records, costs and evidence before commissioning work. National Archives: independent researchers.

This is introductory guidance, not a complete review of every Illinois or local rule. A source may describe national guidance or professional standards rather than a legal requirement. Explore Illinois guidance.

PARTINGPOINT STANDARDS · PROPOSED FOR REVIEW

The evidence we propose requiring

These are our proposed review criteria, separate from legal requirements. Publishing them does not certify existing listings or change their badges.

Research scope and privacy

Agree on questions, budget, record access and consent before sharing information about living people.

Evidence and uncertainty

Provide citations, a research log and a clear distinction between evidence and inference.

Identity and relevant credentials

Record the responsible business or organization and service area. Check applicable licenses with the issuer and distinguish mandatory permissions from voluntary training or membership.

Clear terms and a contact for concerns

Keep dated service terms, charges or eligibility information, cancellation arrangements where relevant, and a named route for questions and complaints.

Keep evidence current

Record the source, date checked, scope and any expiry. Missing evidence remains unverified. We propose rechecking dated or expiring information and removing affected verification claims when evidence is no longer valid. These are proposed editorial controls, not an automated renewal system.

Payment or claiming a listing does not satisfy these checks. Any future recommendation would require separately published criteria.

QUESTIONS TO ASK

A useful starting conversation

• What records will you use, and how will private information be handled?
• What will we receive if the research does not find an answer?