Adoption

Adoption Records Access

Adoptions are confidential. Recent changes to Oregon law allow some people access to certain court adoption records without a court order. Others must get a court adoption cases order to access adoption records. View the "Juvenile and Adoption Court Records" link under the "Other Educational Programs" section for more information on adoption records release requirements.

These links contain sample court forms and information related to the release of court adoption records:

Adoption Cases

Petitions for adoption are filed with the court. The Oregon Judicial Department does not offer forms for adoption. There is a court fee to file an adoption petition. Adoption cases can be complicated. You are strongly encouraged to consult with a lawyer for more help.

The Oregon Department of Human Services website offers information and resources about adoption.

Adoption Registry

The Oregon Adoption Registry is maintained by the Oregon Department of Human Services. The Registry includes a mutual consent registry where adult adoptees, birth parents and other eligible parties can register their identifying information. Non-identifying health, genetic and social information known at the time of adoption may also be available. More information is available on the Oregon Department of Human Services website or by phone at (503) 945-6643.

Copies of Birth Certificates

Copies of original (preadoption) birth certificates are available to adoptees in the State of Oregon through the Oregon Health Authority in Portland. For further information about how to order copies, please visit the Oregon Health Authority website or contact them by phone at 971.673.1190.

Guardianship for Children

The Oregon Judicial Department does not offer forms to establish Guardianships for Children. Check with your local court to see if they offer their own separate forms. For more information about Guardianships for Children, visit OregonLawHelp.org. These cases can be complicated. You are strongly encouraged to consult with a lawyer for more help.