It was relatively simple and I can't believe I waited this long.
1. Download this Adoptee Application for Disclosure, print and fill it out.
2. Go to your bank and have them notarize the application. This is usually provided for free at your bank.
3. Write a letter telling the agency that you wish to have both non-identifying information (medical records) as well as identifying information (Names & phone numbers.)
4. Mail this to
Virginia Department of Social Services
ATT: Jackie Gill
Permanency Program – Adoption Services—11th Floor 801 East Main Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
If you need further clarification, you may call Jackie Gill, Adoption Disclosure
Specialist at: (804) 726-7526 or e-mail her at jackie.gill@dss.virginia.gov
I emailed and called Jackie, but I never got any responses back from the emails/calls.
I mailed out my application on Jan 22, 2013. On Feb 14, 2013, I received a copy of the letter that was sent to the local Dept. of Social Services that handled my adoption, ordering them to conduct a search. They had eight months to make all reasonable attempts to locate birth parents.
March 14, 2013, I got the call that they had results. Your birth parents have a right to say yes or no. They have to have a yes from you and a yes from the birth parent to reconnect.
It was truly that easy and I didn't know it.
Read here about more information about rights of everyone involved in adoptions in Virginia.
Good luck if you are searching for your birth parents!
I know the roller coaster.
~lightning bug
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