What Is Adoption? Adoption is a legal relationship between a parent and child that is not based on blood. Adoption procedures vary from state to state and are designed to ensure the best possible outcome for an adopted child by choosing the parents best suited to their needs.
Once the adoption is finalized, a biological parent's relationship with their biological child is terminated, immediately releasing them from the parental responsibilities and legal rights they once held in relation to that child. Adoptive parents are then assigned those responsibilities and legal rights as if the adopted child were born into their family. An adoptive child will inherit or inherit the estate of either of the adoptive parents, and will have access to any other legal rights a child has with a parent.
The North Carolina adoption process is riddled with complexities and intricacies. The best way to ensure that the rights of both biological and adoptive parents are protected is with the assistance of a knowledgeable adoption attorney. A basic knowledge of the state's adoption policies and options also is important when considering adoption. For the purposes of this article, the attorneys at Webster & Back Law will briefly address (1) North Carolina's adoption laws, and the (2) types of adoptions offered in the state. For more details regarding your individualized case, you should contact our firm.
North Carolina Adoption Laws
According to state law, any minor or adult can be adopted by any adult over 18. Adoption requires consent from an adoptee at 12 or older. This means any adult can adopt an adopted child with their consent. Spouses adopting each other are exceptions to this rule. As long as an adoptive child and an adoptive parent are within the scope of state law, the age of an adopted child does not matter.
In addition, North Carolina requires prospective adoptive parents to have resided in the state for a minimum of 90 days before completing an adoption.
Types of Adoptions in North Carolina
There are a variety of adoptions in the state. Couples and individuals who seek to adopt a person are granted the following options:
Independent adoptions: Also known as private adoptions, independent adoptions occur when an adoptee is located from North Carolina or another state without the assistance of an adoption agency.
Relative adoptions: When a relative of an adoptee wishes to adopt a child.
Stepparent adoptions: The husband or wife of a child's parent seeks to establish a legal relationship as parent and child.
Adult adoptions: Adoptive parents wish to become parents of an adult.
North Carolina Adoption Attorneys
Adopting a child in North Carolina is not a walk in the park. To ensure that all requirements are met and that all necessary paperwork is completed, it is essential to enlist the services of an experienced attorney who is well-versed in North Carolina's adoption regulations. Whether you are considering adopting an infant or an adult, or if you are considering placing your child for adoption, the attorneys at Webster & Back Law can assist you in navigating the intricate legal landscape with minimal disruption. Get in touch with us for a consultation today.