Rhode Island Adoption Laws

Access to Adoption Records

Obtaining Non-Identifying Information:

Adopted adults, birth parents, birth siblings, adoptive parents of a deceased adopted adult, and parents and adult siblings of a deceased birth parent may obtain non-identifying information. Age of adulthood: 21

Obtaining Identifying Information:

Identifying information is provided through a registry.

Adoption Registry:

The following persons may use the adoption registry: adopted adults, birth parents, birth siblings, adoptive parents of a deceased adopted adult, and parents or adult siblings of a deceased birth parent. One hour of counseling is required. $25 registration fee.

Contact:

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations Family Court, Juvenile Division
1 Dorrance Plaza
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 277-3352
http://www.courts.state.ri.us/family/adoptreg.htm

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)