Lichfield Registry Office provides comprehensive family history research services to help you trace your ancestry and build your family tree. Our experienced team has access to extensive historical records spanning centuries, including birth, marriage, and death certificates from across Staffordshire and the wider region.

Whether you're just starting your genealogical journey or need professional assistance with complex family history puzzles, our research service can help you uncover your family's past and preserve it for future generations.

Our Research Services

Our family history research service offers comprehensive genealogical assistance tailored to your specific needs. We provide both guided self-research sessions and full professional research services.

Guided Research Sessions

Work with our genealogy experts in person to search through historical records and learn research techniques.

Professional Research

Our team conducts thorough research on your behalf, providing detailed reports and certified copies of documents.

Available Historical Records

We maintain access to extensive archives including:

  • Birth certificates from 1837 onwards
  • Marriage certificates and banns records
  • Death certificates and burial records
  • Parish registers (baptisms, marriages, burials)
  • Census records and electoral rolls
  • Military service records
  • Immigration and emigration documents
  • Trade directories and newspaper archives

Need help calculating research costs?

Calculate Research Costs

How Our Research Process Works

We've streamlined our family history research process to make it as straightforward and effective as possible. Here's what you can expect when you work with our team:

Getting Started: Begin by gathering any existing family information, names, dates, and locations to help focus your research.

Step-by-Step Research Process

  1. Initial Consultation: Discuss your research goals and what information you already have
  2. Research Planning: We develop a targeted search strategy based on your specific family history
  3. Archive Searches: Systematic searching through relevant historical records and databases
  4. Document Verification: Cross-referencing findings to ensure accuracy and authenticity
  5. Report Preparation: Compilation of findings with copies of relevant documents
  6. Follow-up Support: Guidance on next steps and additional research opportunities

Research Costs and Appointments

Our family history research fees are competitive and transparent, with no hidden charges. All costs are explained upfront during your initial consultation.

Standard Certificates

Birth, death, marriage certificates

£12.50 each

Urgent Certificates

Same-day or priority service

£38.50 each

Research Session Hours

Our genealogy research team is available Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours until 6:00 PM on alternate Wednesdays.

View complete schedule and contact information

Online Research Resources

For those who prefer to conduct initial research independently, we also provide access to several online research tools and databases. Our staff can guide you through these resources during your visit.

Official Online Services

To book your family history research session online:

Book Online Appointment

Official Staffordshire County Council booking system

Specialist Genealogy Services

Beyond basic record searches, we offer specialized research services for more complex genealogical challenges. Our experienced researchers can help with difficult cases that require extensive investigation.

Advanced Research Options

  • Multi-generational family tree construction
  • Breaking through genealogical "brick walls"
  • DNA analysis integration with documentary evidence
  • Military ancestry and service record research
  • Immigration and emigration tracking
  • Occupational history research
  • Property and land ownership searches
  • School and institutional records

Research Tip: The more specific information you can provide about dates, locations, and family members, the more targeted and successful your research will be.

Our team has particular expertise in Staffordshire family history, with deep knowledge of local historical events, migration patterns, and record-keeping practices that can significantly enhance your research outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far back can family history research go?

Civil registration records date back to 1837, while parish registers can extend back several centuries. The availability depends on record preservation and your specific family line. Learn more about available records.

What information do I need to start research?

Start with full names, approximate dates of birth/marriage/death, and locations. The more specific details you have, the more successful the research will be. Book a consultation to discuss your case.

Can I access records online without visiting the office?

Some records are available through our online portal, and we can conduct research remotely. However, many historical documents require in-person access to our archives. Contact us to discuss remote research options.

How long does a typical research session take?

Research sessions typically last 2-4 hours depending on the complexity of your case and the number of records to search. Professional research projects may take several weeks. Check availability for your preferred session length.

Ready to discover your family history?

Book Research Session