New Mexico Adoption Laws

Access to Adoption Records

Obtaining Non-Identifying Information:

Adopted adults age 18 or older and adoptive parents with a minor under age 18 may obtain non-identifying information.

Obtaining Identifying Information:

Adopted adults age 18 or older can receive information regarding the birth parents, if the birth parents have filed consent. Birth siblings can receive information regarding an adopted adult age 18 or older, if the adopted adult has filed consent.

Using a Confidential Intermediary:

Adopted adults age 18 or older, adoptive parents of an adoptee under 18, birth parents, or birth siblings may petition the court to hire a confidential intermediary. If the adopted adult or birth parents are deceased or cannot be contacted, the court will decide whether to release the identifying information.

Obtaining an Original Birth Certificate:

An adoptee must petition the court in which the adoption was finalized.

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