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What We Do :: Searching and Reunion :: Search and Reunion FAQ
Frequently Asked Search Questions
 - Siblings reunited after being separated since early childhood.
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How difficult is it for adoptees or birthparents to conduct a successful search?
- The vast majority of adoptees and birthparents who start a search will succeed in finding the person/people they seek if they stick with it. When working with Adoption Network Cleveland, you maintain control over your search and make it happen with our guidance throughout the process. Searches are most often not as hard as you would think - there are many resources available, and working with experienced people can make all the difference. In short, don't be discouraged, as there is help available to complete your search.
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How long does a search take?
- Each search is different. Some searches take only days, while others take months to complete. Most commonly, a search takes several months, but there are always exceptions. In general though, the more active you are in your own search, the quicker it will happen - this is true whether you are an in-town or out-of-town member.
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Can't I just hire a Private Investigator to do my search?
- Adoption Network Cleveland offers an alternative to paid search (that is, hiring a person to do your search for you) in that we assist an individual to do their own search through sharing our expertise and resources. The process of searching can be, in itself, personally satisfying. Through this process, the searcher often finds parts of themselves that they are looking for as well as the people/person that they are seeking.
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Why does Adoption Network Cleveland require that I attend General Meetings as I start my search?
- There is more involved in search and reunion than simply conducting and completing the necessary research. To be sure that you are prepared and supported, the Network asks that you come to at least two of our General Meetings as you are getting started. Many people find the meetings and discussion so helpful that they continue to attend through the completion of their search and long past their reunion. Out-of-town members are not required to attend, but we strongly encourage you to attend a similar support meeting in your area. We maintain a listing of groups across the country in our office and are happy to give you the contact information.
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Do I need to wait to join Adoption Network Cleveland until I've attended the two required meetings?
- No. You can join at any time. We do ask that you have your membership and search fees in place before the search process begins, and that you maintain your membership at least through the completion of your search. Many searchers remain members afterward to continue supporting this important program. Your continued support is truly appreciated.
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What is the law in Ohio regarding adoption records?
- In the state of Ohio there are three sets of laws pertaining to three time periods, regarding access to adoption records containing identifying information:
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Pre-1964
Persons born and adopted in Ohio prior to January 1, 1964 have access to their Vital Statistics file, which contains their original birth certificate and the court papers pertaining to their adoption. The adoptee must file a special affidavit with the Ohio Department of Health, Division of Vital Statistics, along with two forms of identification and a fee of $20. This process can be completed through the mail. Lineal descendants of the adoptee may also access this information in the event that the adoptee is deceased; this process must be completed in person. Identifying information is sealed to birthparents, birth siblings and all others.
1964-1996
Identifying information is closed to persons born in Ohio between 1964 and 1966. In 1986, Ohio created an affidavit system (sometimes referred to as a registry). Through this system, a birthparent or birth sibling may file an Authorization for Release with the Ohio Department of Health, Division of Vital Statistics. The adoptee, upon reaching 21, may petition Probate Court to check if there is a release on file. If there is a release or if the birthparents are determined to be deceased, the judge may release identifying information. The Probate Judge also has the authority to release information to the adoptee upon the showing of "good cause."
Post-1996
In 1996, the law changed to a standard of openness unless otherwise specified. At the time of surrender, the birthparents are asked to sign a form stating that 'yes, the birth certificate will be open,' or 'no, the birth certificate will be closed.' If the birthparent is not present to sign the form, the birth certificate will be open. "Open" means that when the adoptee is 18 years old, the adoptive parents will have access to the original birth certificate upon request. The same applies when the adoptee is 21 years old and makes the request themselves. The birthparent is also asked to choose whether the first names, photos and other items will be shared.
New Law on Non-Identifying Information Goes Into Effect September 21, 2006
Included in SB 238, non-identifying information on record with the agency, attorney or court will, as of the effective date of the law September 21, 2006 be available on request to all Ohio:
- adoptees at age 18 or older
- adoptive parents of adoptees under the age of 18
- adoptive family members of a deceased adoptee
- birthparents of an adoptee
- birth siblings age 18 or older
- family members of a deceased birthparent
The law specifies that the information will be provided in a reasonable amount of time and that the agency, attorney or court may charge a reasonable fee for providing the information.
At the prompting of Adoption Network Cleveland and others, in 1996 the above standard became Ohio law in adoptions from 1996 forward. With the passage of SB 238, the above becomes the standard in all Ohio adoptions regardless of the year. This clarifies an important area of policy for both adoption providers and adoption triad members seeking information. Non-identifying information is defined as all information except first and last name, maiden name, alias, social security number, address, telephone number, place of employment, and any state or federal numbers used to identify a person.
Non-identifying Information
In Ohio "identifying information" is defined as: first name, last name, maiden name, alias, address, telephone number, social security number, place of employment, and other numbers used to identify the person. "Non-identifying information" includes social and medical history and everything not listed as identifying information.
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If my records are sealed, can I still search?
- Don't worry. People whose records are closed can still complete a successful search. While we never get into closed records, we do help you to piece together information left behind in other publicly accessible places.
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What is the International Soundex Reunion Registry?
- This is a private, non-profit reunion registry which Adoption Network recommends to all adoptees, birthparents and adoptive parents, who are either searching or willing to be found. You can obtain a form online at www.isrr.net, call (775) 882-7755, or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
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I.S.R.R.
P.O. Box 2312
Carson City
NV., 89702
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