How to Find Open Adoption Records

If you were adopted as a child and now have the desire to find your biological parents it is not uncommon or unheard of. Many adopted children reach out to their birth parents when they get old enough to make the decision.

Some adopted children have a strong desire to get in touch with their biological parents when they get older. There are ways this can be done without having to spend a lot of money to do so.

• Perform research to find out which court handled your adoption case. If your adoptive parents are willing to help you they would be the ideal source to obtain this information. If that is not possible go to the courthouse where your birth mother lived at the time of your birth.

• Consult with someone who is familiar with the adoption laws in your state to determine what type of rights you have to your adoption records.

• Fill out a petition to unseal your adoption records. This should be done by going to the courthouse and filing the paperwork with the county clerk. There is normally no charge for this service.

• Prepare yourself to answer any questions about why you want to open the adoption records. Have a valid reason because curiosity may not work for you.

• The court will set a date for you to meet with the judge to hear your case. It is imperative that you show up on time because the judge will determine whether you have the right to open your adoption records.