This briefing reviews state laws regarding parties to an adoption. General information dealing with who may adopt, who may be adopted, and who may place a child for adoption is identified. In order for an adoption to take place, a person available to be adopted must be placed in the home of a person or persons eligible to adopt. All states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Islands have laws that specify which persons are eligible as adopting parents and which persons can be adopted.
Title: North Carolina Adoption Laws: Who May Adopt, Be Adopted, or Place a Child for Adoption? Introduction: Understanding the intricacies of adoption laws is essential for both prospective adoptive parents and birth parents in North Carolina. This article will provide a detailed description of the North Carolina adoption process and address the various categories of individuals who may adopt, be adopted, or place a child for adoption in the state. Keywords: North Carolina adoption laws, adoptive parents, birth parents, child adoption, legal adoption 1. Who May Adopt a Child in North Carolina? North Carolina adoption laws extend the right to adapt to various individuals and couples based on specific criteria. The following categories include those eligible to adopt a child in North Carolina: a) Married Couples: Married couples, both opposite-sex and same-sex, are eligible to adopt a child jointly. The law recognizes them regardless of whether they have biological children or not. b) Single Individuals: Single individuals who are at least 18 years old can pursue adoption in North Carolina. c) Stepparents and Relatives: Stepparents and blood relatives, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings, may also adopt a child under specific circumstances. d) Foster Parents: Foster parents who have nurtured and cared for a child under their temporary custody may be eligible to adopt that child if reunification with birth parents is not possible or in the child's best interest. 2. Who May Be Adopted in North Carolina? North Carolina adoption laws allow various individuals to be adopted. These include: a) Minors: Children under the age of 18 may be adopted in North Carolina. b) Adults: In certain situations, North Carolina law permits the adoption of adults, primarily for purposes such as inheritance or establishing a legal parent-child relationship. 3. Who May Place a Child for Adoption in North Carolina? Birth parents or legal guardians who determine that they are unable to provide adequate care, support, or a stable environment for their child may choose to place the child for adoption. In North Carolina, birth parents or legal guardians have the right to voluntarily relinquish their parental rights and choose adoptive parents for their child. Conclusion: North Carolina adoption laws create a legal framework that enables individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds to adopt, be adopted, or place a child for adoption. Whether through joint adoption by married couples, single adoption, adoption by relatives or stepparents, North Carolina strives to provide suitable families for children in need of permanent homes. Understanding these adoption categories and relevant laws serves as a vital resource for those involved in the adoption process. Keywords: North Carolina adoption laws, adoptive parents, birth parents, child adoption, legal adoption
