What form do I need to request a copy of my adoption papers?

Question

From the US Court system. I need a Official copy.

Thanks!

Answer 1

They may be sealed, it depends on the state that processed the adoption.

Answer 2

If you need copies of the forms your parents got then you should just contact the probate court of the county it took place in and ask them.  If it's the copy your birth parents signed then unless you have an unsealed file, it'll be a hassle to get them.  Just curious, what do you need them for?

Answer 3

Were you adopted from a foreign country? If no, then there will be no record of adoption in the federal [U.S.[ courts.

Start with the state and county that your adoption took place in. Write to the Family Court judge for that County's courthouse requesting a copy of all records relating to your adoption that have not been sealed by court order. My parents saved EVERYTHING from my childhood but I've not yet come across an actual paper copy of a finalized adoption decree. The only "official" thing I have is a certified copy of my amended birth certificate.

BTW -  Please advise re: your international (or not) origin, state of adoption, and purpose for "official copy" and maybe we can help you a bit more.

Answer 4

Aren't adoption records in NY closed?  What do your adoptive parents have?  That is all you can likely get.

Answer 5

Adoption records are held at the agency that handled the adoption, the county court where the adoption was finalized or through the state.  Go to this site to check out your states requirements for requesting information.

http://laws.adoption.com/statutes/state-...

Depending on your states laws you may or may not be able to receive a copy of these records.  Most states records are still closed.