Adoptees searching for birth parents will be counseled.
There are two types of adoption records in Connecticut: records that do not identify the birth parents, but contain other information about them; and records that give the birth parents' or the adopted child's identity. Only certain people have a right to access the different types of records. Once the adoptee becomes an adult, she may seek either type of record. Records containing identifying information may also be requested by birth parents, adult birth siblings and, if the adopted person is deceased, by adult descendants.
Instructions
1. Write to the agency that placed the child for adoption, or to Connecticut's Department of Children and Families, requesting the release of the records.
Connecticut Department of Children and Families
Office of Foster and Adoption Services
505 Hudson Street
Hartford, CT 06106
860-550-6578
2. A meeting will then be set up, between you and a worker from the Office of Foster and Adoption Services. Attend this meeting. If you are an adult adoptee, you will be advised of the potential difficulties associated with contacting birth parents. Counselors will outline prepare for such situations as learning that the birth parents are deceased or that have significant emotional or addiction issues. If you are a birth parent, the worker will use the interview to assess your stability and maturity, and to prepare you for the possibility that the adoptee may not want contact.
3. Await the decision of the Department on the release of records, and the outcome of the search that will be conducted by the Office of Foster and Adoption Services.
4. If you are an adoptee, and for some reason your request for records is denied by the Department, appeal to the Probate Court.
Tags: birth parents, Adoption Services, Foster Adoption, Foster Adoption Services, Office Foster, Office Foster Adoption, Children Families