In Florida, all adoption records are sealed upon the finalization of the adoption and are opened only by a court order from a judge. Actual adoption proceedings are held in a court of law and relinquishment (of the adoption file) proceedings are held in the judges chambers.

There is an adoption reunion registry in Florida, and it's run by the state. It's called F.A.R.R. (Florida Adoption Reunion Registry). Any member of the triad, a birthparent, an adult adoptee, the adoptive parents and even the birthfamily, can register, that is of course providing the finalization of the adoption occurred in Fl .
In some cases depending on the circumstances surrounding the adoption there may be no information on file at the registry. This is definitely not typical in all situations.

In some cases in a relinquishment proceeding or when someone registers with F.A.R.R., there may be a confidential intermediary involved, generally one is appointed by the courts. But sometimes you may need to hire one yourself. If you have to hire a CI (who is much like a PI) consult with a local adoption support group and see who they recommend. There is some controversy concerning the use of a CI, and whether or not to use one. Sometimes though, a CI can be very beneficial to your search.
A confidential intermediary is a third party involved in the release of identifying information. And is in place in order to prevent the actual contact between the members of the triad, if "no contact" is indicated by the triad member.
In some cases if a contact cannot be made after a substantial time period, the courts may review the petition and relinquish the file into the custody of the adult adoptee, but only if "good cause" can be proven. Sometimes even if "good cause" can be proven by a petitioner, a judge will deny the petition. It all really depends on the judge.

To register with F.A.R.R., send a SASE to:

FARR
HRS Post-Adoption Services Unit
Children and Families Program Office
Bldg 7 Room 102
1317 Winewood Boulevard
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0700
Att: Josette Marquess

and follow the instructions on the application, as they will send your application back to you if the instructions aren't followed properly.

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