Mississippi Adoption Laws

Access to Adoption Records

Obtaining Non-Identifying Information:

Adopted adults age 18 or older, adoptive parents or legal guardians, or offspring, or birth siblings of adopted adults age 18 or older may obtain non-identifying information. If an adopted adult, adoptive parent, or legal guardian, offspring, or birth siblings of an adopted adult request more information regarding the adopted adult or birth parents, he or she may ask the agency to search for the information.

Obtaining Identifying Information:

Adopted adults age 21 or older can receive information regarding the birth parents if the birth parents have filed consent. Adopted adults can request that the agency search for and contact the birth parents. Adopted adults also may petition the court.

Obtaining an Original Birth Certificate:

An adopted adult may receive the original birth certificate if the birth parents file an affidavit of consent.

Providing Information:

If either birth parent has information on a genetically transferable disease or illness, the birth parents can notify the agency who will contact the adopted adult age 21 or older or the adoptive parents of an adoptee under 21. If the adopted adult has acquired or may have information on a genetically transferable disease, he or she can notify the agency, which will contact the birth parents.

Credits: Child Welfare Information Gateway (http://www.childwelfare.gov)