Choose a Search Method

Take Precautions
Get the Word Out
Check the Laws in Your State
Get Your Non ID and Put Waivers in Your File
Choose a Search Method

Assemble Your Support Team

There are many methods to conduct an adoption search. You may decide to use one of these methods exclusively, or a combination of several. Here are some of the various methods you may want to consider:

Freedom is what you do with what's been done to you. ~Jean-Paul Sartre

1. Searching on your Own

Searching on your own allows you to control the pace and make many of the significant decisions as to how your search is handled. The search process itself can be a very significant part of the healing process for many searchers.

If you decide to search on your own, you might also consider getting some help from a search angel who will assist you free of charge in most instances.

2. Using a Confidential Intermediary

LAURA’S STORY- Laura received a telephone call one night from a social worker/confidential intermediary who worked at the large adoption agency that had handled her son’s adoption many years ago. The social worker told her that her son wanted contact with her and she agreed. The agency sent her “Waiver of Confidentiality” and “Consent for Contact” forms to complete. Her son had already signed and completed both forms. After the agency received the signed forms from Laura, they simultaneously gave both her and her son contact information. Laura and her son then got in touch with each other and subsequently developed a warm relationship.

A confidential intermediary (CI) is an individual who is authorized by law in some states to conduct a search. They generally search on behalf of either a birth parent or an adoptee. The CI is given access to confidential adoption records to help facilitate the search.

Once the CI locates the birth parent or adoptee, the found person has the option to allow or refuse contact. If the found person refuses contact, the file is closed and no information from the file is provided to the person who requested the search.

CI programs are administered in each state by different governmental bodies, the court system. or by private organizations. The training for confidential intermediaries varies from state to state as well.

If you are considering the use of a CI, here are a few questions to ask: