Whether you are trying to find a long lost relative or trying to fill out the family tree, a probate search may be the answer you are looking for. Many people search birth records, marriage records, and divorce records but they forget about the probate records. This one simple tool can give you more information than you think. Here’s how.

Why Bother with a Probate Search?
What people do not realize is that the probate records contain more than just the property records. It actually tells you who the estate was given to and who thought they had a claim. That means you now get lots of names you may not know existed.

If a Will is involved, then you see who the deceased thought was important. The Will can include more than just immediate family. It may include cousins, aunts, friends and anyone else. Search through these names and you might find a family connection.

Sometimes, people are not included in the Will. They can file a claim with the court as well. These people are also included in the probate records. So not only do you see who the deceased thought was important, but you see who else thought they should be included.

Where to Begin with a Probate Search
The easiest place to start is online. You can search through the records online before ever reaching a courthouse. Unless you need an official copy, there is no real reason to go to the county court.

You will need the name of the deceased (decedent) to search online. If you know the state and county, then this will make searching online easier. However, this information is not necessary.

What to do with the Probate Information
You did the search and now you have all this information. Unfortunately, you do not know what to do with it all. It can be overwhelming but here are some tips on what to do next.

• Birth Records Search – The first thing you want to do is search the birth records. This way you can get an idea if they belong in the family tree. Not everyone listed, will be part of the family.
• Divorce Records Search – Once you find a member of the family, search the divorce records. Divorce records will list the spouse and any children.
• People Search – The probate records will list the name and address. Conduct a people search to locate members and find out what they know.

You can start your probate search now and start filling out that family tree tonight. It is simple and easy.

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It may be the most popular hobby today.  Genealogy has taken off like wildfire, and people searching for their past need birth records.  Birth records establish a timeline, make additional family connections, and provide a wonderful glimpse into the past.

1.    Find Maiden Names
Did you ever come to a moment when you realized that you had no idea what was your grandmother’s maiden name?  It is strange that this kind of detail can quickly disappear into the past.  Add another generation or two, and half the time, you might not even know your relatives first names.

Birth records typically list both the mother and father’s names making it easier to track down family connections.  When tracking back in a family line having that maiden name means that you can follow your mother’s family as well as your father’s.  With a maiden name you can hopefully acquire your mother’s birth record and from there her parents.

2.    Establish a Genealogical Timeline
When parents tell of their childhood, things often get a bit mixed up.  Using birth records as well as other documents from vital statistics, you can reestablish a more accurate chain of events.  While family memories are always the best place to start, it is always best to confirm stories with other written accounts, such as those found in newspapers and journals.

Establishing a timeline means that you can narrow your search parameters when you dig through media available in libraries around the country.  Vital statistics bureaus are a wonderful place to make multiple connections through birth and death certificates, marriage licenses and other legal papers.

3.    Conduct a Simple Search for Vital Statistics Online
You can apply to each relevant state if you so choose.  You can find the exact requirements on their websites.  Usually you will need ID, a letter explaining your reason for searching, and accurate locations and dates for each event you need.  If you lack any of this information, things get much more difficult.

Online search engines don’t need so much information.  Search for birth records with just a few details when you go online, then you can narrow down your choices with additional intangible information that means nothing to the state clerk.  Try an online search service for birth records, and then you can approach the state with more data for the specific record or certificate that you desire.

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Most states have birth certificate records that date back between 75 and 100 years, with some accuracy.  Although there are gaps in the record here and there, consistent records do exist.  Fires, floods, and other kinds of disasters have caused some data to disappear into the annals of time, but generally, you can search for your ancestor’s birth certificate with confidence.

Making a Birth Records Request
To acquire a birth certificate from the State, you will need to know the name of the individual, the date of birth, and the location as a minimum.  Any additional details, like the parent’s names or address can help as well.

The State will ask you to send along a letter or at least a paragraph explaining your relationship to the record you request and charge you a fee.  The fee varies from state to state.

Realize that genealogical searches aren’t exactly high priority.  People who need their own records will have a higher place in the pecking order.  It may take some time to dig up the record you want, especially if you don’t have complete birth information.  Still, this is a good way to get a certified copy of a birth certificate if you want one.

Another Route to Finding Birth Records
The truth is that you don’t need a certified copy of a birth certificate if you are merely establishing genealogy.  You just need proof of the birth.  With the same information (or even less) that you would give the State, an online search service can provide you with a scan of the certificate.

Quicker and easier than dealing with bureaucracy, search services help people find their roots.  Rapidly find birth certificate records without all the hassle today.

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There are several basic reasons people want to see a marriage certificate; some reasons are more innocent than others.  Your motivation for the search will impact the government’s willingness to assist your mission.

A Lost Marriage Certificate
If you have lost your own certificate the State is happy to help you out.  You will need to contact the specific state and find out if the certificates are kept by the state or county.  The next step is to fill out a request providing the names of both the bride and groom, including the maiden name.  A nominal fee and a letter explaining your need complete the process.  A certified copy will be sent to you shortly.

Genealogy Requires the Maiden Name in the Marriage Record
For those who are searching for their roots, marriage certificates are invaluable.  They not only establish that a marriage actually took place, they provide a time line and a very valuable and often lost maiden name.  The maiden name allows a genealogist to make connections to the frequently lost female side of a family.

Confirmation of Marriage Records
For women dating online, it can be difficult to reliably know if the man across the table from them is married of not.  Unfortunately, in these cases you don’t have as much information as you might like.  This is where an online search service becomes very valuable.

Unlike a formal State based request, you can use an online service without knowing all the details.  They can help you track down your date based on the information you already have.  If you know the current phone number or address, a search service can usually track back and provide additional information, potentially providing information on marriages and divorces.

Even if you aren’t checking up on a date, use a search service for marriage certificate information.  Unless you really need a certified copy of the certificate, an online service can help provide verification of a marriage without all the paperwork.

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