What to Know About The Birth Certificates of Adopted Children

 Posted on May 30, 2019 in Family Law

Adoption can be a long and difficult process, but it is one that can lead to great excitement and a new family. For this reason, people do not enter into the adoption process lightly. Even after an adoption is complete, there are still legal issues that will need to be addressed. One such issue pertains to the birth certificate of adopted children, which will always have special conditions. 

Adopted Children Have Two Birth Certificates

Adopted children have an original birth certificate from their birth parents and a new one from when their new parents finalize the adoption. Many adopted children want to know more information about their birth parents once they learn that they were adopted. The date, time, and place of birth are the same on both certificates. The original birth certificate contains the birth mother’s name and the given name of the child. It is often the case that the birth certificate will not contain the birth father’s name, as it is not necessary for a birth certificate. Not having the father’s name on the birth certificate will make it difficult if the child wants to track down his birth father in the future. The new birth certificate has the name of the adoptive parents and the new name given to the child (if there is one).   

Limited Access to Original Birth Certificate 

The original birth certificate is sealed by the state registrar after the adoption is complete. In 25 states, the birth certificate can be obtained by consent of all three parties (child, adoptive parents, and the birth parent). In the remaining states, a court order is required. Obtaining the original birth certificate is a lot easier if the adoption is an open adoption. Open adoption means there is an agreement that allows the birth parent to be a part of the adopted child’s life. Over 90 percent of adoptions are open adoptions. Open adoptions will allow adopted children better access to the medical history and original birth certificate.

Contact a Novi, MI Adoption Attorney

Adoption involves a lengthy process and there are many legalities to start out. If you are considering adoption or need legal help with an adoption that has already occurred, our quality Oakland County adoption lawyers will be there to listen and will handle your case professionally. Elkouri Heath, PLC gives quality legal services to those going through the adoption process. Contact us at 248-344-9700 today for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.fatherly.com/parenting/what-adoptive-parents-need-to-know-about-birth-certificates/

https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-71551_4645_4939-13816--,00.html