§ 962 — Search and reunion services

(a) An adoptee 21 years of age or older who has obtained a copy of a vital record under § 3110 of Title 16 may request that a licensed adoption agency assist in locating any of the following:

(1) Either or both birth parents;

(2) If a birth parent is deceased, siblings (full or half) of the birth parent;

(3) Birth siblings (full or half) of the adoptee.

(b) When a licensed adoption agency locates an individual sought by an adoptee 21 years of age or older, the agency will advise the located individual of the right to make a no-contact declaration. If a no-contact declaration is made either verbally to a licensed adoption worker or in a writing filed with the agency, the agency will so advise the adoptee and no further assistance will be provided. If a no-contact declaration is not expressed, the agency shall immediately advise the searching adoptee of the located individual’s current name, address, and telephone number.

(c) If requested, the agency shall provide counseling or intermediary services, or both, to the searching adoptee or the located individual, or to both.

Legislative History

71 Del. Laws, c. 481, § 6