Adoption Records & Search
Compassionate support to guide you through life’s changes.
Adoption Records & Search
Search and Disclosure Adoption Services
Serving adoptions from Catholic Charities North Dakota, Catholic Family Service, Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota, and The Village Family Service Center
At Catholic Charities North Dakota, we understand that adoption is a lifelong journey. In addition to supporting families through the adoption process, we also offer Search and Disclosure services for individuals seeking information or connection after an adoption has taken place.
Search and Disclosure Adoption Services
What Are Search and Disclosure Services?
Search and Disclosure services help individuals access available adoption information and, when possible, pursue contact with biological relatives. We offer both:
Non identifying information
General background details such as medical history, family traits, or social history that do not reveal names or identifying details.
Identifying search options
When appropriate and permitted by law, we can facilitate efforts to locate and contact birth parents, adopted adults, or siblings.
Every search is handled with sensitivity and confidentiality. We carefully follow state laws and respect the privacy rights of all parties involved.
100+
Years of helping families
Adoption Records & Search
A Respectful and Supported Process
Reaching out for information or contact can bring up a range of emotions. Our trained professionals walk alongside you throughout the process, helping you understand your options, prepare for possible outcomes, and navigate next steps. Ongoing support is available before, during, and after contact is made.
We serve anyone who has been adopted in North Dakota and welcome people of all faiths. CCND has the adoption records of The Village Family Service Center and Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota. Contact us if you are interested in learning more about Search and Disclosure services. We are here to provide guidance, clarity, and compassionate support as you take the next step in your adoption journey.
Search & Disclosure Fees:
Non-identifying $100
Identifying $500
For more information, please visit www.hhs.nd.gov/cfs/adoption-program/adoption-search-disclosure
Steps in Search and Disclosure
For both Identifying and Non- Identifying Search Requests…
1. Contact Catholic Charities North Dakota to request the appropriate paperwork
2. Determine the type of search you are requesting: identifying or non-identifying.
3. Complete and return the required paperwork along with the applicable fee to Catholic Charities North Dakota.
4. Upon receipt, Catholic Charities North Dakota will provide a non-identifying summary letter outlining available background information from the time of the adoption.
If you are requesting identifying information…
5. A Catholic Charities North Dakota social worker will contact you to review the search and disclosure process and discuss your thoughts, expectations, and feelings related to potential contact.
6. The social worker will conduct a comprehensive search to locate current contact information for your birth family. Once located, they will make a confidential connection to inform them of the search and explain their rights within the process.
7. If the individual is open to contact, the social worker will provide consent forms allowing them to specify what level of information or contact they are comfortable sharing.
8. The social worker will then facilitate connection between both parties in a manner that feels safe and comfortable for everyone involved. Communication may occur directly or through the agency, depending on preferences.
9. Ongoing support and guidance is available as you begin communication, ensuring you have encouragement and professional support throughout the process.
Adoption FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I request adoption records through Catholic Charities North Dakota?
To request adoption records, you can begin by contacting Catholic Charities North Dakota directly. Our team will guide you through the process, including completing any required forms and verifying your identity. Because adoption records are confidential, access may be limited based on North Dakota state law and the type of adoption.
Are adoption records in North Dakota open or confidential?
Adoption records in North Dakota are confidential and sealed. They are not available to the public and are only released by court order.
What can request an adoption search?
An adopted adult who is 18 years of age, a birth parent who made an adoption plan for a child who is now over the age of 21, a birth sibling of an adopted adult who is now over the age of 21, or an adult child of a deceased adopted adult.
What is the difference between identifying and non-identifying information?
Non identifying information is information that does not disclose the identity of the other person. For example: age, race, physical description, or medical history. Identifying information includes information that directly identifies the other person. For example: name, address, phone number.
Can identifying information be released automatically?
No, Catholic Charities North Dakota will reach out to the person who’s identifying information is being sought and will discuss the search request with them. The person must consent to the release of their information prior to any information being released.
Why is there a cost for adoption search and disclosure services?
Fees for adoption search and disclosure services reflect the professional time, resources, and expertise required to complete these requests. Locating current contact information often involves extensive research and careful verification. Additionally, agencies provide counseling and supportive services to all parties involved to ensure the process is handled sensitively and in accordance with ethical and legal standards. These fees help sustain the delivery of comprehensive, confidential, and trauma-informed services.
Can I get updated medical information from my birth family?
Yes, but typically that requires an identifying search and consent from the birth parent.
Can an adoptee get a copy of their original birth certificate?
In North Dakota original birth certificates are sealed and can only be released with a court order.
What happens if the person I am searching for says no?
Their choice is respected and no identifying information will be shared regarding them.
What happens if the person cannot be found or doesn’t respond?
Catholic Charities North Dakota will make reasonable efforts to locate the person, but if we are unable to locate them, no identifying information would be shared.