What the Adoption Process Looks Like in North Carolina

Adoption in North Carolina is the legal process by which a court permanently ends one set of parental rights and creates a new legal parent-child relationship. Once finalized, the adopted child has the same rights as a biological child — in every sense.

Start the Conversation

COMMON ADOPTION TYPES

Types of Adoptions

There are several types of adoptions: independent, agency, foreign stepparent, relative and adult. Each follows a different process, with different consent requirements, home study obligations, and timelines — and we will walk you through exactly what yours involves.

How We Work

How We Handle Adoptions at Smith Cash Family Law

01

Determine What Type of Adoption is Required

At Smith Cash Family Law, we can help with independent, stepparent, relative or adult adoptions as well as foreign re-adoptions.

01

Determine What Type of Adoption is Required

At Smith Cash Family Law, we can help with independent, stepparent, relative or adult adoptions as well as foreign re-adoptions.

02

Complete all required components

Adoption is a document-heavy process. We will guide you through the paperwork and help you obtain the documentation you need to finalize the adoption.

02

Complete all required components

Adoption is a document-heavy process. We will guide you through the paperwork and help you obtain the documentation you need to finalize the adoption.

03

Finalize the Adoption

Receiving the Adoption Decree is always an exciting day. Obtaining the Adoption Decree is the final step in your adoption and means that your adoption is now complete.

03

Finalize the Adoption

Receiving the Adoption Decree is always an exciting day. Obtaining the Adoption Decree is the final step in your adoption and means that your adoption is now complete.

Start your adoption process with confidence.

Contact us for a confidential conversation so we can help you understand your options. No commitment, just clear guidance so you can decide what is right.

Start the Conversation

Faq

Your adoption questions, answered honestly.

How long does adoption take in NC?

There is no standard timeframe for an adoption in North Carolina. Factors that do matter are the type of adoption, if consent can be obtained and the county in which you file your Adoption Petition.

Do biological parents have to agree to a stepparent adoption?
What happens to the biological parent's rights after adoption?
Is consent required?