How can I find out more information about my adopted child's birth family?

If you have adopted a child and are looking to find out more information about their birth family, it is important to note that Delaware adoption law complies with the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) which requires that adoption records remain confidential. Any information you receive about a birth family must come from a licensed adoption agency or the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services. Generally, the adoptee and the adoptive parents must submit an adoption search form to gain access to information about the birth family. This form must include a request to receive non-identifying information about the birth family. This request allows the agency to provide information that is not confidential, such as physical characteristics, birth order, educational background, medical history, and occupation. Once the adoptive parents and the adoptee have submitted an adoption search form and received the non-identifying information, they may then contact the agency to gain access to identifying information about the birth family. To do this, they must submit a written request for identifying information about the birth family. The agency will then review the request to determine if the adoptive parents and the adoptee have met all of the requirements. If they have, they will then release the identifying information to the adoptive parents and the adoptee. It is important to remember that the process of gaining access to information about an adopted child’s birth family can take some time. If you have questions about the process, it is best to contact a licensed adoption agency or the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services for more information.

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How can I find out more information about my adopted child's birth family?

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