North Carolina Adoption Laws
By Olivia Wathne, Esq. | Legally reviewed by FindLaw Staff | Last reviewed November 05, 2024
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
Adoption is a complex process. It involves several legal hurdles that can make it challenging for prospective adoptive parents. While federal statutes provide some guidance, each state has its own requirements governing adoptions.
In North Carolina, the adoption process is regulated at the state level. This legal framework outlines how prospective adoptive parents can navigate the process and the regulations affecting the adoption of a child. Read on for a better understanding of North Carolina’s laws on adoption.
Types of Adoption in North Carolina
North Carolina provides various adoption options tailored to different family needs and situations. Each adoption type has distinct requirements. This ensures a successful and sound legal process for both prospective adoptive parents and the adopted child, including adult adoptees. Types of adoption available in North Carolina are:
- Private Adoption: Involves arranging an adoption through birth parents with the help of a private adoption agency, a county department of social services, or a licensed child-placing agency. This method allows for personal involvement and planning between the adoptive parents and the birth family.
- Independent Adoption: Allows prospective adoptive parents to work directly with birth parents. This process is often facilitated by attorneys rather than an adoption agency.
- Foster Care Adoption: Enables families to adopt children from the state’s foster care system. North Carolina's foster care system is managed by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. This process involves transitioning children from foster care to a permanent home.
- Stepparent Adoption: Allows a spouse to adopt their partner’s biological child.
- Open Adoption: Provides ongoing contact between the adoptive family and the birth parents.
- Grandparent Adoption: Permits grandparents to adopt their grandchildren. This often involves specific legal procedures to ensure the best interests of the child.
- International Adoption: Supports the adoption of children from abroad. Prospective parents must comply with both U.S. and international regulations to bring children from other countries into North Carolina families.
- Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Adoption: Applies to adoptions involving Native American children, ensuring that they are placed under the ICWA's provisions to protect their cultural heritage and tribal affiliations.
North Carolina Adoption Laws
The following table highlights the main provisions of North Carolina's state laws on adoption. See FindLaw's Adoption section to learn more.
North Carolina Adoption Code Sections |
General Statutes of North Carolina
|
---|---|
Who May Be Adopted |
Any person; any adult with his consent; spouses may not adopt each other |
Age at Which the Child's Consent for Adoption Is Required in North Carolina |
12 years and older |
Who May Adopt |
Any adult person over 18 years old. Adoption is open to single adults, married couples, same-sex couples, and stepparents, as well as relatives and foster parents who meet the necessary requirements. |
Home Residency Requirement Prior to Finalization of Adoption |
At least six months (waived in certain circumstances) |
State Agency/Court |
|
Statute of Limitations to Challenge |
Adoption consent is revokable within seven days of giving it. If consent is given under fraud or duress, a person has six months of the time the fraud or duress could have reasonably been discovered to challenge the adoption. |
North Carolina Adoption Process
The adoption process in North Carolina involves several steps. Prospective adoptive parents must first complete a comprehensive home study. The home study is conducted by adoption facilitators or a licensed child-placing agency. It includes background checks, interviews, and home visits to assess their suitability.
The home study is followed by filing a petition for adoption with the court. The petition outlines the adoption plan. It also includes an affidavit detailing the adoptive parents' intentions.
If adopting a child from the foster care system, the process involves a pre-placement assessment. The biological parents must agree to the adoption through a consent to adoption or relinquishment of parental rights.
Adoption proceedings culminate in a final adoption decree. A decree of adoption is issued by the court. This decree finalizes the adoption and updates the child's birth certificate to reflect the new parental status. Throughout the process, legal services and adoption counseling may be provided to support the adoptive family.
Need Legal Help With an Adoption? Speak With an Attorney
Adoption can be a complicated process. State and federal laws govern adoption. An attorney will help you navigate these laws while protecting your legal rights. If you are in the midst of an adoption case, reach out to an experienced North Carolina adoption attorney for legal advice.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life

Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.