Adoption

Adoption is the legal process of establishing a parent/child relationship.  The biological parent(s) relinquish their parental rights and responsibilities and the adoptive parent(s) acquire these parental rights and responsibilities.  Adoptions in North Carolina are regulated by statutes intended to advance the best interests of the adoptive child and the process is quite detailed.

The Law Office of Kimberly Lee, PLLC can provide effective legal advice and support as we guide you through the adoption process.

Overview:

  • Domestic Adoption: This involves adopting a child within the same country, often through an agency or independently. 
  • International Adoption: This involves adopting a child from another country. 
  • Adoption from Foster Care: This involves adopting a child who has been in the foster care system. 
  • Adult Adoption: This involves adopting an adult, typically to formalize a pre-existing relationship. 

Legal Procedures:

In North Carolina, the adoptee must have lived in the state for at least six consecutive months before the adoption petition is filed, or have been born in the state. Adoption involves legal steps, including filing a petition, obtaining consent from relevant parties, and finalizing the adoption with a court order.