Adoption is the legal procedure through which a minor (18 years or younger) is recognized by law as becoming the son or daughter of the adopting adult(s), and as having all of the rights and duties of such relationship, including the right of inheritance. There are several different types of adoptions, which include related, unrelated, agency-placed, or private-placement. Though adoption, the adoptive parent(s) have the same rights, duties and responsibilities of a natural parent. In all cases, the adoptive parent needs to contact an attorney to file the Petition for Adoption in the county where the minor service, or where the agency is located.

Before an adoption is granted, the only people with access to the adoption records are the petitioner, the petitioner's attorney, any attorney appointed by the Court, and the investigator. After the adoption is granted, all documents pertaining to the adoption are recorded and sealed. An alternative for the adopted child who wishes to attempt to locate his/her birth parents, would be to contact the Alabama Department of Human Resources at 334-242-9500. After the adoption is granted, the adoptee's name will be changed as requested by the Petitioner.

If you have additional questions call 256-825-4266.