As an adopted individual, there may come a point when one decides to track down their birth records. They might want to do this because of health issues, curiosity, or for evidence in a court case. Regardless of the reason why an individual wants to locate their birth records, there are several ways that this can be accomplished. Follow these steps to work through the process of locating an individual's adoption birth records.
Select the State
If possible, narrow down the states where the individual wants to search for their adoption birth records. Not only are records easier to search on a state-to-state basis, but each state has their own rules on what is permissible regarding such records. Even though almost all states search adoption records, the procedure to open the records or to reveal segments of the records vary from state to state. Childwelfare can give the searcher information for how each state handles these issues.
Pursue Non-Identifying Information
Although adoption birth records may be sealed, states will reveal “non-identifying information” which includes the age, ethnicity, education, and physical description of the birth parents. Reasons for putting the child up for adoption or the existence of siblings of the adopted person may also be available. This information is available only to adopted people over 18-years-old.
Pursue Identifying Information
At the time of an adoption, birth parents are asked whether information that can identify them as the birth parents can be released to the adopted person at age 18 or 21. If the birth parents consent, this identifying information can be released. If not, an individual must go to court to show a compelling reason why this information should be revealed.
Search a Mutual Consent Registry
This registry system allows adoptive parties to consent to having their identifying information disclosed. An individual can check with their state to see whether they qualify to use a mutual consent registry or search encyclopedia.adoption.com for that information.
Search Through an Agency
For states without mutual consent registries, there are usually public or private agencies that help an individual locate birth family members who have consented to their information being released. ABCAdoptions provides a great list of the state adoption offices that an individual can contact.
Request the Original Birth Certificate
Some states allow access to the birth certificate upon request of an adult adopted person under certain circumstances. Check with each state to see if this is a possibility and under what conditions this can take place.
Hire a Professional
If one reaches a dead end with their search to find their birth records, they should consider hiring a family law attorney or a private investigator. If records are sealed, an attorney would be able to help the individual get the records unsealed. LegalMatch.com can help determine whether a family lawyer would be appropriate.
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