Locating an adopted sibling allows siblings to get to know each other.
Siblings of children adopted out of the family often wonder what happened to their sibling. California, like most states, provides a way for siblings to get in contact with their adopted sibling, though in most cases both the adopted-out sibling and the sibling raised by the birth parent must agree to having information issued before siblings are able to locate each other or get in contact. Trying to locate an adopted sibling in California often takes patience.
Instructions
1. Complete the proper form. California allows people of all ages to request information about their adopted sibling. Children under the age of 18 must complete form AD904B, "Waiver of Rights to Confidentiality for Siblings Under 18 Years of Age," while adult siblings must complete form AD904A "Waiver of Rights to Confidentiality for Siblings," provided on California's Department of Social Services website. Include your name, address, telephone number and any relevant adoption information to aid in finding the adoption file. After completing the form, get it notarized by a California Notary Public.
2. Submit the form to the adoption agency or the California Department of Social Services. If possible, mail the form to the agency that assisted with the adoption, as forms sent to Social Services for adoptions completed through an agency are returned with the agency's name and address for submission through the agency. Mail forms for the Department of Social Services to:
CDSS Central Office: CDSS, Adoptions Support Unit
744 P Street, M.S. 3-31
Sacramento, CA, 95814
3. Wait for your sibling to contact you. Upon receipt of your form, it is filed in the sealed adoption record. Before information regarding locating an adopted-out sibling is released, both siblings must complete the information release waiver.
4. Petition the court. If you have submitted the waiver and have not received any information from the adopted sibling, California law allows you to petition the California Superior Court in the county that the adoption was completed to appoint an intermediary to help locate your sibling. The intermediary attempts to contact your sibling and ask if he is willing to fill out a waiver so that you may contact him. Contact the county of adoption's Superior Court for its specific requirements and paperwork for filing a petition.
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