Adoption records can provide a wealth of information. For example, they can contain the child’s original birth certificate, plus personal details about birth parents and other blood relatives. Most states have specific procedures for accessing any nonidentifying information contained within an adoption record, as well as separate procedures for obtaining the identifying information. Turn to a local family lawyer if you wish to access an adoption record. In the meantime, here's what you should know about such documents in Ohio.

Protecting Adoption Records

Individuals who place a child for adoption are entitled to privacy. At the same time, those who are adopted are entitled to know about their personal, family, and medical history. To protect everyone's rights, detailed records are made — or should be made — for every adoption arrangement; however, they're often sealed once the adoption is finalized. Only certain individuals may then access these records in specific scenarios after taking the proper steps.

Accessing Adoption Records

In the state of Ohio, those who have been adopted and their adoptive parents are entitled to access the records. Because the procedure for doing so has been modified several times, there are different requirements depending on when the adopted individual was born and when the arrangement was finalized. Since it can be challenging to navigate this process, consider hiring a family lawyer before getting started.

The most recent provisions allow for children who were born in Ohio and adopted after September 18, 1996, to open their records upon turning 21. If they are between 18 and 21, their adoptive parents may request to open these records, as long as the biological parent did not submit a Denial of Release Form. To request these records, you must submit a notarized application, two valid forms of identification, and a $20 fee.

Also, if adopted individuals over 21 are OK with releasing their own information, they can permit the Ohio Department of Health to do so by submitting a special form. Once they’ve filed this form, the ODH may release their name to the biological parents or siblings, upon request. If they later decide they don’t want this information released, the adopted individual may rescind permission by going through the proper channels.

If you want to access adoption records in Ohio, turn to  Michael A. Newland Esquire in Hamilton. Having been in private practice since 1989,  he has counseled clients throughout Butler County in varied areas such as family law, criminal defense matters., and will preparations.. When you turn to him for legal advice, you can be sure your case will get the attention it deserves. He will provide personalized, one-on-one guidance at every stage of the proceedings. To request a consultation , call (513) 887-9595 or reach out online.