Obtaining Non-Identifying Information:
Adoptive parents, adopted adults age 18 or older, birth parents, and children of a deceased adopted adult may obtain non-identifying information.

Obtaining Identifying Information:
Identifying information is provided through a registry.

Using the Adoption Registry:
Birth parents and adopted adults age 18 or older may use the registry. One hour of counseling is required. If the adopted adult is unsuccessful in obtaining identifying information through the registry, he or she may petition the court to search for birth parents to obtain consent for the release of identifying information.

Contact:

West Virginia Mutual Consent Voluntary Adoption Registry

West Virginia Department of Health and Human Services

Kay Chambers

Office of Social Services

350 Capitol Street, Room 691

Charleston, WV 25301-3704

(304) 558-7980

Obtaining an Original Birth Certificate:
An adoptee must petition the court in which the adoption was finalized.

Providing Information:
Birth parents may leave updated medical, genetic, or social history to be placed in the court file.

Search Resources for this State

Source: National Adoption Information Clearinghouse. Reprinted with permission.

Related Topics

Birth Parents
Identifying Information
Non-identifying Information
Adoption

Adopted
West Virginia
Petition The Court
Parents