Alameda County Superior Court
Adoption Self Help

Birth Records

This section tells you how to get birth records from the Court.

Click on a topic to learn more:

1. Can I get copies of documents from the court file?
2. What if you were adopted and you want to see your court records?
3. How do I get an amended Birth Certificate (VS44)?

1. Can I get copies of documents from the court file?
   
   Adoption files are confidential. Only the adopting parent or the adopting parent’s lawyer can get copies of court documents related to the adoption.
   
   To ask for copies, go to the Clerk's Office at the Superior Court. You must show proof of identification.
   
   The fee for photocopies is 75¢ per page and $6.60 to certify.
    
2. What if you were adopted and you want to see your court records?
   
   You cannot see your own adoption file without an order of the court. To ask for a Court order, ask the Clerk's Office for a Petition for Birth Record Access.
   
   The Court will contact you to tell you if you can or cannot view your records.
    
3. How do I get an amended Birth Certificate (VS44)?
   
   You must file an amended birth certificate form (VS44) with the Court on or before the adoption hearing. You can get this form from the agency you are working with.
   
   After the adoption is final, the clerk will mail the VS44 to the State Registrar at the Department of Health Services in Sacramento. The amended birth certificate will be mailed to you by the State Registrar.
   
   Contact California Department of Social Services

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