How to Find an Adopted Relative

The process for locating adopted relatives will vary based on where the adoption took place. While open-adoption states allow adoptees and birth parents to access adoption records at their will, some states require that parties to the adoption obtain a court order to review identifying information about their adopted relatives.

Instructions

1. 

   Speak to the agency that handled the adoption. If you were a party to the adoption proceeding, either as a parent or adoptee, you will be able to access your adoption records through the agency that handled the case if you are in an open-adoption state. In these jurisdictions, you will simply need to show proof of your identity and you will be able to review information about your adopted relatives.

2. 

   Petition the court for the right to review your family's file. If your case was handled in a closed-adoption state, you will need to petition the court to review your file and obtain information about your adopted relatives. You will need to petition the court in the jurisdiction where the adoption was finalized. Once you file your petition, a judge will hear your reasons for seeking identifying information about your relatives and issue a ruling on your case.

3. 

   Research your relative on the Internet. If you have the names, state of residence and dates of birth for your relatives lost through adoption, you may be able to find them using public records databases available for free online. These databases scan divorce, marriage, birth, death, arrest and property records. To find these databases, visit the websites of the clerk of the court, department of vital records, and land records department in jurisdictions where you believe your lost relative might have lived.

4. 

   Contact a private investigator. If you have demographic information about your relative but are unable to locate him or her yourself, you may wish to enlist a private investigator. For a fee, the investigator can help you find a physical address and phone number for your adopted relatives.

Tips & Warnings

• Before you begin your research, consider adding your contact information to a private adoption registry. Registering with these services may allow your relatives to find you if they are also searching.

References

• Adoption Resources
• Access to Adoption Records