Adoption Records: Legal Documents Related to the Adoption Process
Adoption Records contain legal and identifying information about an adoption, including details about biological and adoptive parents, court proceedings, and finalization dates. These records may be sealed or restricted, depending on state laws.
What’s Included in Adoption Records?
- Original and amended birth certificates.
- Adoption decree and legal paperwork.
- Medical and family history of biological parents.
How to Access Adoption Records
- Some states allow adult adoptees to request original birth certificates.
- Records may be sealed but accessible through court orders.
- Adoption agencies, legal representatives, and genealogy groups may assist in record retrieval.