Milan Pohontsch
Milan Pohontsch is the founder and president of European Roots Genealogy. The following summarizes some of Milan’s qualifications:
- Professional genealogist with over 20 years of experience
- Specialized in German and Eastern European research
- Reads old German handwritings
- Translations of old records
- Milan Pohontsch is a native of Germany
- Fluent in German, English, and Wendish/Sorbian
- Communicates effectively in many other Eastern European languages (Czech, Slovak, Russian, Polish)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do you charge less than other research companies?
It is not fair for us to charge the client more than necessary. We do not have large overhead expenses and we advertise primarily through our satisfied clients (word of mouth).
- Do you charge more for international research?
We don’t. Our specialty is international research.
- How much do I have to pay upfront?
Half of your payment is due upfront, the other half after you receive the research documentation. Copies or certificates are charged separately (for additional costs see Prices).
- Do you do probate research?
Yes we do. We are the researchers for different American and German probate agencies.
- What kind of documents do I have to prepare before you can start researching my family tree?
Almost nothing. You will receive an electronic form to fill out. If you prefer to send us the information you already have by email or would rather make a phone call, that’s fine too. If we still have questions we will contact you.
- How long will it take before I receive the results of the research?
About 4–8 weeks. Additional time may be needed if we have to order special certificates or documents from other archives or record agencies. If faster research is desired, you may contact us.
- How far back can I go with my genealogical research?
This depends on the area your ancestors are from. Most records go back to the beginning of the 17th century, and, in some cases, as early as the 1500s. A small number of documents were destroyed during WWII.
- How much will you find in one research session?
It depends on several different factors, such as the research problem, the time period we are researching, and the locality. European Roots Genealogy will do as much as possible within the time you authorized us to use. Often we spend more time than hired for without charging you these extra hours.
- How can I be sure that the ancestors found are the correct ones?
All the results found are documented with copies. Our researchers document every research project in writing which will show step-by-step how the research was done. If you are not sure about some of the information found, please contact us for clarification.
- What can I expect and how are the results presented to me?
All results will be mailed to you in a presentation binder. The binder will include copies of all documents found, the documentation, a research calendar, suggestions for future research, and a CD with all documents scanned as digital images. If wished, the genealogy can be published on your own website or we can create a website for you.
- I want an own website with my family tree. Can you help me with this?
European Roots Genealogy works together with a web designer. Please contact us to specify your wishes. The charges are the same as for genealogical research.
- Do you prepare my ancestors for LDS temple work?
Yes, but only if this is requested. Otherwise, we do not share any of your information with others.
- Is the cost of genealogical research tax deductible?
No, it is not.
- More questions?
If you have further questions please contact us.
Testimonials
Many satisfied clients know European Roots Genealogy.
If you wish to share your experience with others, please send us a short statement. We would be honored to publish it.
“I can’t speak highly enough of European Roots Genealogy. They have done a wonderful job on researching our Dickel family for our nephew, Martin Clark. You will appreciate how they document everything.”
“I was fairly new to Genealogy and was stuck in trying to trace my wife’s grandmother back to Germany. My instructor suggested me to contact European Roots Genealogy and seek their help. I sent them what information I had about my wife’s grandmother and some other documents in the German language. Their response was prompt and their results helped us to learn more than anyone in the family had ever known about the roots of their grandmother. I continue to use European Roots Genealogy and recommend them to my friends.”
“We, the Doll family organization, have been extremely happy with the research conducted on our family lines by European Roots Genealogy. They work very hard and are meticulous in their record keeping. We would definitely use them for further research and recommend them to anyone who would like an honest, reliable, and knowledgeable researcher for their genealogy.”
“In April 2006 I contacted European Roots Genealogy for help finding my family roots in Germany. I gave them the very meager information that I had and turned them loose. The results have been beyond my hopes. They have taken my family back several generations, providing copies of information in German, with English translations, and explanations on family members, as well as locations and living conditions. I have been highly pleased and I continue to seek their professional help.”