Any person (adopter or adopted) can get some information. This includes information about the birth family. The information must not identify them.

If it was through an agency, the agency should have the information. Information can also be found in the Illinois Adoption Registry.

The adopted person and the birth parents must agree to give out their information. If they do, either one can get it.

The Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) may have information. DCFS will have information about the birth parents and the adoptive family if:

• The child was a ward of the state, or
• The adoption happened through DCFS.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) may have information. IDPH can help adopted children and their birth parents through the Medical Information Exchange. The birth parents must file:

• A registration identification form, and
• An information exchange authorization.

The birth parent can cancel and refile these documents at any time. An adopted person can file these documents when they are age 21 or older. If the child is 18 to 21 years old, the parents must agree.

Once an adoption is finalized, the original birth record is sealed. Other adoption related documents are also sealed. IDPH can help people get a copy of their birth certificate. Birth parents can decide if they wish to release more information.

People trying to find someone involved in the adoption can go to court. They can ask to assign a Confidential Intermediary (CI). The CI can search through records about the adoption. When the CI finds the person, they will help both sides agree about contact. Both sides have a right to keep their name secret. Direct contact will not happen unless both sides agree.

For more information, call (847) 298-9096 or use the Confidential Intermediary Illinois website.