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Adoption
Can my adopted child access information about their birth parents?

Can my adopted child access information about their birth parents?

Q: What happens when an adopted child turns 18?

When an adopted child turns 18, they legally become an adult and can make their own decisions. This includes the ability to request access to their adoption records in California. However, identifying information about their birth parents may still be redacted unless a court order is obtained (Cal. Fam. Code § 9200).

Q: How to get over adoption guilt?

To overcome adoption guilt, adoptive parents should focus on open communication with their child about their feelings and experiences. Seeking support from counselors or support groups can also be beneficial. It's important to remember that feelings of guilt are common, and addressing them can lead to healthier family dynamics.

Full question:

My husband and I live in California. We adopted a child 15 years ago from an agency. When he turned eighteen years, we informed him that he was adopted. Ever since then he wants to know more about his real parents and his origins. Is it possible to get such information?

Category: Adoption
Date: 04/07/2025
State: California

Answer:

In California, adoption records are confidential, and adoptees generally cannot access their records. However, if a court order is obtained, your adopted child can access their adoption records and certificate.

According to California Family Code § 9200:

Documents related to the adoption process are not open for inspection by anyone except the involved parties and their attorneys, unless authorized by a superior court judge in exceptional circumstances.
The court clerk can issue a certificate of adoption that includes the adoption date, place, child's birth date, adoptive parents' names, and the name the child has taken. This certificate will not include the names of the birth parents unless the child was adopted by a stepparent.

Therefore, your child can inspect their adoption records if they obtain a court order. However, any identifying information about the birth parents will be redacted from the documents provided.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What is adoption guilt?

Adoption guilt refers to the feelings of guilt or shame that some adoptive parents may experience regarding their child's adoption. This can stem from concerns about the child's feelings about being adopted, the birth parents, or the circumstances of the adoption. It's important for adoptive parents to communicate openly with their children and seek support if they feel overwhelmed by these emotions.

What happens when an adopted child turns 18?

Can a biological parent regain custody after adoption in California?

In California, once a child is legally adopted, the biological parent's rights are terminated, and they cannot regain custody. The adoptive parents assume all legal rights and responsibilities for the child. This is true unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as a stepparent adoption where the biological parent retains some rights.

What are the symptoms of adoption trauma?

Symptoms of adoption trauma can include feelings of abandonment, low self-esteem, anxiety, and difficulty forming relationships. Adopted children may struggle with identity issues and have a strong desire to learn about their birth parents. It's important for adoptive parents to provide a supportive environment and seek professional help if needed.

What is adoption remorse?

Adoption remorse is the feeling of regret or doubt that some adoptive parents may experience after finalizing an adoption. This can arise from challenges in parenting, concerns about the child's well-being, or feelings of loss regarding the biological family. Open communication and support networks can help address these feelings.