While there is a growing trend toward “open adoptions” in the United States, traditional adoptions have remained closed and the majority of adoptees do not have easy access to their birth records. In most states the names of one or both biological parents are sealed by the courts, accessible only by court order.  Currently, the Illinois provision allows adopted children to access information about their biological parents via court-appointed intermediaries. However, identifying information cannot be released without the birth mother’s written consent.

Note: This information was prepared as a public service by the Illinois State Bar Association and is a joint project with the Illinois Press Association. Its purpose is to inform citizens of their legal rights and obligations.