Rise of the Forensic Genealogist

Working internationally, Kemp & Associates focuses on international probate research and maintains a commitment to reducing the number of estates claimed by the government by locating the rightful heirs to estates. Kemp and Associates locates missing and unknown heirs and estate beneficiaries through a team of skilled forensic genealogists, who conduct investigations into family history using genealogy and technology. 

Forensic genealogists concern themselves with a branch of forensic science known as forensic genealogy and use investigative techniques to build upon standards records of familial history kept by government agencies. Forensic genealogy involves the study of kinship in a legal context. The methodology used goes beyond traditional ancestral genealogy by engaging living relatives, neighbors, and other individuals associated with the estate. Furthermore, research is conducted with more attention to a larger picture than simple family data. 

Over the course of their investigation, forensic genealogists focus on establishing bloodlines to prove kinship and identity in a legal context. Their reports are completed with the intention of holding up in court for cases regarding probate matters and missing or unknown heirs. In addition, the use of forensic genealogists continues to evolve and their services have extended to include other forms of legal investigations, such as real estate speculators on property titles and identifying persons in cold cases. The Department of Defense also employs their aid in locating the next-of-kin for military identifications.