Can I Demand my Foster Care File?

Question

I'd like to know who cared for me in the early months of my life. Can I ask to see my foster care records from before I was adopted?

New York State

Answer 1

We adopted from foster care and were given the complete file at the time of the adoption.  That may be something the just do here or that has changed since your adoption, but your adoptive parents might be able to get the files even if you cannot.

Answer 2

In Florida foster parents info is confidential unless they give permission.

Answer 3

yes

Answer 4

Actually, you can ask. They may not give you the file, but the specific info you are asking for.  Foster files are not typically sealed.

Answer 5

Its your file

Of course you can

Answer 6

seems a bit odd that you would have a difficult time getting your file.  as far as i know every former foster youth should be able to access their file.  contact the county that you came from and request to look at your file.

also, i don't know if NY is the same, but here in CA we have a foster care ombudsman at the state level that help current and former foster youth with making sure their rights aren't being violated.  you may want to look into that if you are having difficulty accessing your file.

Answer 7

I tried, but had no luck in NY