All adoptions are filed under seal and are not public record. Information on specific adoptions may only be given to the adoptive parents, biological parents (whose rights were not terminated), adoptive child, and attorney who represented the adoptive parents at the time of the adoption. The individual requesting information must come into our office in person to provide a written request for information and a valid government issued photo identification such as a driver’s license. Upon verification of the identity of the requesting party by the clerk, the clerk will only be able to provide information about whether a case has been filed in our Court and may provide a certified copy of the final adoption decree.

The copy charge is $5.00 plus .50 per page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for my child’s new birth certificate?
If the child was born in the state of Tennessee, please complete the Certificate of Adoption and submit to the clerk with a check for $30.00 for the original plus $15.00 for each certified copy.

If the child was born out of state, please contact the vital records agency in the child’s birth state directly to find out their procedures for obtaining a new birth certificate by adoption.   

Can I file an adoption without the help of an attorney?
Yes, but it is not recommended. Please refer to the Am I required to use an attorney? and What free legal resources are offered in Rutherford County? information in the FAQ section of our website.