Adoptee Rights Law Center

Legal representation and advocacy for adult adopted people

Gregory D. Luce

Be An Adult: NO on Idaho HB544

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A bill in Idaho will define an adult adoptee as a person who is at least 40 years old.

Community Engagement Sessions for Minnesota’s New Law

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The Minnesota Department of Human Services will hold a series of community engagement events in relation to the state’s new adult adoptee birth record law.

The Unsettled Issues of Jonas Hubley’s Adoption

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Important pieces are missing from the story being told about the adoption and immigration issues for Haitian adoptee Jonas Hubley.

It’s My Birthday. How About a Cup of Coffee?

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To celebrate my birthday, why not donate the cost of a really nice cup of coffee to Adoptees United Inc. It’s easy.

Another Coalition, This Time for Michigan

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Adoptee Rights Law Center is proud to be part of another state-level adoptee rights coalition, this time dedicated to repealing a discriminatory birth record law in Michigan.

We Did It!

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Thanks to all who pitched in for this effort. Collectively we raised $2,700, more than our goal.

What’s an Original Birth Certificate?

Most adopted persons know what an original birth certificate (OBC) is. Many non-adopted people do not. An original birth certificate is the initial birth certificate created shortly after a person's birth. For most people, it is their only birth certificate.

For persons born and adopted in the United States, a new or "amended" birth certificate replaces the OBC once the adoption is final. In addition to replacing the original, the names of the birth parents are also replaced with the names of the adoptive parents. Some states may also alter or omit additional information on a new certificate, including the adoptee's specific place of birth.

Depending on state law, an original birth certificate is sealed and remains unavailable to the adopted person, even when they become an adult. If you are not adopted, your original birth certificate is your only birth certificate---and it is always available to you upon request.