Many adults choose to open their homes to adoptive children, either to start a family or expand the one they already have. While adoption can be extremely rewarding for everyone involved, it can also be a complicated process. If you’re considering adopting a child in North Carolina, here are a few frequently asked questions to help you prepare for a consultation with an adoption lawyer.

Common Questions About Adoption

What are the legal requirements?

To be eligible for adoption, you must be at least 21 years of age. You also must undergo a criminal records check, pass home safety checks, submit to a medical examination, provide references, and complete a pre-placement assessment or home study. Certain crimes disqualify individuals from eligibility, and you also must not be a recipient of public assistance.

What does a home study entail?

A home study is when a licensed agency evaluates a prospective adoptive individual or family. It assesses factors such as the home environment, family history, physical and mental wellness, financial status, education and employment history, and the desire to adopt.

Is fostering required first?

Fostering isn't legally required in the state of North Carolina before adoption. However, some parents electively become licensed to foster, as doing so may help you connect with children who need care. Alternatively, some prospective adoptive parents choose to work directly with adoption lawyers and expecting biological mothers instead of going through foster care.

Are there fees?

Adoption fees vary by arrangement. If a child is under the care of the Department of Social Services, they may only be required to pay legal fees. To adopt a baby, some prospective adoptive parents may cover legal expenses as well as the birth mother’s travel, medical, and hospital expenses, among others.

How do you finalize an adoption?

An adoption lawyer can help you file a petition through the state. The court will then order a post-placement study, which will include additional interviews with the parents and child. If the post-placement study is passed, adoption is finalized through the court system.

If you’re considering adoption in Montgomery or Stanly County, NC, turn to Fulcher Law Firm. These adoption lawyers have more than 18 years of experience and are committed to helping you navigate the challenging aspects of the adoption process as smoothly as possible. Find out more about their practice areas online, or call (704) 984-6060 to schedule a consultation.