Search Resources

Nevada remains a sealed records state. Birth records sealed to adoptees in 1973, and court records in 1953. Still, Nevada Triad has assisted in successful court petitions to open the adoption file and numerous reunions in the past several years. Use well the many resources provided in this section of the web site. Take special heed to Shea's Search Series. It is THE definitive guide to self-empowered adoptee search! Make certain to join the Nevada Triad Mailing List, where you will receive on-going support during your search and reunion. God's Speed!

Obtaining Non-Identifying Information:

Adopted adults and adoptive parents can obtain non-identifying information. [NAC 127.371(4)] Non-ID can be obtained from the private licensed adoption agency or the state's Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS). State handled adoptions, prior to the establishment of DCFS, were processed through the Welfare Division of the Department of Health, Welfare & Rehabilitation. NOTE: If your adoption was handled through a private attorney, you have no administrative code nor statutory right to non-identifying information. If the attorney or firm is still in practice, you may contact them and request it. There is a good chance the attorney's adoption file has been destroyed.

Obtaining Identifying Information:

Identifying information is provided through a match at the State Adoption Registry and by directly Petitioning the Court.

Obtaining the Adoption Finalization (Adoptees):

Adult Adoptees "may" request a copy of their adoption finalization from a licensed adoption agency. Nevada Administrative Code [NAC 127.371(5)] does not require the adoption agency to provide it to you. But it is helpful to provide the code, in making your request.

Obtaining the Relinquishment and Consent to Adoption Form (Birthparents):

Birthparents have a right to receive, upon request to the adoption agency, a copy of the relinquishment form they signatured at the time of surrender of their child. [NAC 127.260(2)] [NAC 127.371(3)] It has been our experience that birthparents will need to provide a copy of the law, in order to receive compliance.

Using the State Adoption Registry:

The following persons may use the registry: adopted adults (age 18 or older), adoptive parents, birth parents (any age), and persons related within the third degree of consanguinity. However, if a birthparent does not grant specific written permission for other family members to register, they may not.

The State Registry can provide non-identifying background information to adoptees, birth and adoptive parents, and authorized relatives whose adoptions were handled through the state agency. In certain circumstances, specific medical information can be exchanged with the family's physician to help plan and treat an adoptive child. This is determined on a case by case basis. Contact and reunion assistance may also be provided to eligible registry members who have completed applications on file and mutually agree to contact. Identifying information can only be released through court order. There is no cost for this service. For application or other information regarding the Registry contact:

Private Licensed Adoption Agencies:
(Where to write for Non-Identifying Information and copies of your Relinquishment Form or Adoption Finalization.)

Additional Search Pages and Resources

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