DNA Detective Services

Tracing Biological Relatives and Solving DNA Mysteries

DNA testing has transformed the way we understand family history. Whether you’re searching for unknown biological parents, making sense of unexpected DNA matches, or simply need help interpreting your results, I can assist.

I specialise in DNA-based family history investigations, using a combination of genetic evidence and traditional genealogical research to uncover biological relationships. Even if the person you are looking for hasn’t taken a test, a relative may have — and this can provide the key to unlocking your family mystery.

Using tools such as AncestryDNA, MyHeritageDNA, and GEDmatch, I apply clustering, segment analysis, triangulation, and documentary research to resolve complex cases.

My DNA services include:

  • Identifying unknown parents, grandparents, or other relatives using clients’ DNA test results
  • Interpreting confusing or unexpected DNA results
  • Investigating unknown or surprise matches
  • Combining DNA analysis with historical records to reconstruct your family story

With over 100 million people now tested worldwide, there is a growing network of matches that can provide valuable clues. I use a range of records, including civil registration, census returns, newspapers, and electoral rolls, to support DNA findings with documented evidence.

Whether you are just beginning your journey or have reached a brick wall, I offer confidential, professional support tailored to your needs.

Your DNA may already hold the answers. I can help you find them.

Solving family mysteries one story at a time.

What Clients Say

“For 50 years, I knew nothing about my father. My DNA test hadn’t produced any matches closer than second cousins – but Nicola worked out exactly who he was, and proved it. Thanks to her, I not only found my father’s identity, but also gained a true sense of who I am”

— Martha P., Newcastle

“I chose to give my son up for adoption in 1971 and have longed for the day since then when we might be reunited. This year, thanks to Nicola, that dream came true. I would recommend her very highly to anyone who wants to find a lost relative.”

— Hilary K., Somerset

FAQs

Can you help if I don’t know who either of my biological parents are?

Yes. Even if you have no information about one or both biological parents, DNA testing can reveal close or distant matches. By analysing your DNA matches and combining them with public records, I can build a picture of your biological family and identify your parents from other, more-distant DNA matches. 

That’s very common. Fortunately, close relatives often appear in your match list, such as first or second cousins. I use these indirect connections to work backwards and reconstruct the family tree, even if your specific relative isn’t in the database.

For most family history and unknown parentage cases, I recommend starting with AncestryDNA. It has the largest database, which increases the chances of finding close matches. If you’ve already tested with another company (such as 23andMe or MyHeritageDNA), your results can often be uploaded to other platforms like GEDmatch to expand your match pool. I can guide you through the best options based on your goals and situation.