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THE LAW OFFICES OF ELLEN M. KAPLAN, P.A. 9900 West Sample Road, Third Floor Coral Springs, Florida 33065 (954) 341-1309
FLORIDA ADOPTION REUNION REGISTRY
What is the Florida Adoption Reunion Registry? The Florida Adoption Reunion Registry is a confidential cross-reference file of people who are or were the principal parties in an adoption. Certain close relatives also may be included. All people on file in the Registry have indicated they wish to make their identities known to other parties involved in the adoption.
How does it work? Those eligible to register may provide identifying information - current name, address and telephone number - and authorize its release. The Registry will match and disclose information to individuals who have authorized release of information to one another.
Who is eligible to register? Adult adopted persons who are 18 or older, adoptive parents, biological parents, biological siblings and biological grandparents may file identifying information. A minor adopted person may be registered by his or her adoptive parents. When filing information, applicants must specify to whom they wish to release information. Minor applicants adoptive parents may supply information and authorize its release to any or all of the following; biological parents, biological siblings and biological grandparents. Similarly, biological parents, siblings or grandparents may supply information to release to the adult adopted persons and/or adoptive parents.
Will any information be released if just one party registers? No. Release of information will occur only if two individuals have registered their identifying information and authorized its release. No one is required to register and anyone may withdraw from the Registry at any time by written notice to the Registry. The Florida Adoption Reunion Registry is passive, in that we do not actively search for anyone and all registry applications are voluntary.
How does one register? Application forms and information may be obtained from:
Florida Adoption Registry Reunion Department of Children and Families 1317 Winewood Boulevard Tallahassee, Florida 32399 (850) 488-8000
Is there a fee? An initial filing fee of $35.00 is required and should be submitted with the application form. If a hardship exists and the applicant is unable to pay the fee, they should request a waiver of the fee in writing. The fee may be waived with proper documentation of hardship, such as proof of eligibility for food stamps, public assistance, unemployment, or SSI benefits.
What about changes? The information registered may be changed, updated or withdrawn at any time by a person previously registered. An update form may be obtained from the Florida Adoption Reunion Registry and the fee to change information is $10.00.
Does the registry provide non-identifying information such as medical or social background information? No. Adult adoptees seeking non-identifying information should request the information in writing from the DCF Post-Adoption Services Unit or the private adoption agency or attorney that handled their adoption.
What are the registry requirements? The Registry requires individuals who want to register to provide proof of identity when they submit the Registry application. Examples of proof of identity are: copies of birth certificates, driver licenses, voter registration cards, marriage licenses, notarized statements or copies of court documents specifying the identity of the applicant. Registry applicants should not send original of any of these documents. In addition, the applicant must specify on the application their relationship to the adoptee.
Use of an agent. If, for reasons of privacy, applicants do not wish to be contacted directly by the Registry, an agent may be appointed at the time of registration. Contact the Registry for further information.
Counseling Services. Adult adopted persons, biological parents and others eligible to us the Registry may wish to receive counseling services on the pros and cons of establishing contact with one another. Individuals who wish to receive counseling services should contact their local DCF Adoption Unit or contact their local Community Mental Health Center.
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