The genealogist’s Code of Ethics

The Association of Professional Genealogists (APG) is an international organization dedicated to supporting those engaged in the business of genealogy. Their Code of Ethics informs our work in this field. Most professional genealogists follow this code of ethics.

I encourage researchers of all levels of expertise and experience to be aware of and attempt to follow this standard in their work. It serves to promote 1) a truthful approach to genealogy, family history, and local history; 2) the trust and security of genealogical consumers; and 3) careful and respectful treatment of records, repositories and their staffs, other professionals, and genealogical organizations and associations.

APG members and genealogists strive to:

1. Communicate genealogical work in a clear, well-organized manner using evidence from reliable and fully cited sources, giving proper credit to work that is not my own, without withholding or knowingly misrepresenting sources or data;

2. Represent my abilities, credentials and services accurately, and avoid the use of misleading or exaggerated statements;

3. Engage in sufficient continuing education to maintain competence and comply with applicable requirements;

4. Prepare and abide by written agreements regarding scope, timeframes, deliverables, fees, expenses, payment structures, ownership and disclosure, while keeping the client informed of progress or delays;

5. Disclose potential conflicts of interest;

6. Take appropriate measures to safeguard information concerning living people, to maintain confidentiality of data, research, and client communications, and to obtain informed consent before using or publicly sharing information;

7. Comply with terms of service, privacy policies, laws and regulations, and applicable rules and guidelines, including those concerning copyright, privacy, data protection, and business practices, and refrain from encouraging others to violate them;

8. Refrain from mutilating or rearranging records, or removing them from their proper custodians;

9. Refrain from soliciting established clients of another researcher through denigration or other improper means;

10. Treat other genealogists, genealogical organizations, and the profession with civility and respect, engaging in fair criticism while refraining from statements that malign or purposely injure.

For more information about the APG and this Code of Ethics, visit APG Code of Ethics and Professional Practices. 

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