West Virginia § 48-23-101 - Policy regarding persons obtaining identifying information after adoption.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 48-23-101 — Policy regarding persons obtaining identifying information after adoption., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 48-23-101. Policy regarding persons obtaining identifying information after adoption.
(a) Adoption is based upon the legal termination of parental rights and responsibilities of birth parents and the creation of the legal relationship of parent and child between an adoptee and his or her adoptive parents. These legal and social premises underlying adoption must be maintained. The Legislature recognizes that some adults who were adopted as children have a strong desire to obtain identifying information about their birth parents while other such adult adoptees have no such desire. The Legislature further recognizes that some birth parents have a strong desire to obtain identifying information about their biological children who were surrendered for adoption, while other birth parents have no such desire.
(b) The Legislature fully recognizes the right to privacy and confidentiality of:
(1) Birth parents whose children were adopted;
(2) The adoptees; and
(3) The adoptive parents.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 48-23-101
What does West Virginia Code § 48-23-101 cover?
Section 48-23-101 ("Policy regarding persons obtaining identifying information after adoption.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite West Virginia § 48-23-101?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 48-23-101" (West Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of West Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.
How does West Virginia § 48-23-101 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in West Virginia.