Adoption

In North Carolina, step-parent adoption is a legal process where a stepparent adopts the biological child of their spouse. The process begins with the stepparent filing a petition for adoption with the court. Before proceeding, the stepparent must undergo a background check and home study, which includes interviews and home visits to assess their suitability as an adoptive parent. Additionally, consent from the biological parent who is not married to the stepparent is required, unless that parent’s rights have been terminated due to abandonment, unfitness, or other legal grounds.

The judge will review the circumstances to ensure that the adoption is in the child’s best interest, and if the adoption is approved, the stepparent gains full legal parental rights and responsibilities for the child. Following the adoption, the child name can be changed on his or her birth certificate, and the stepparent assumes all legal responsibilities and rights as a parent.

If you need an attorney to help you during this process, please make an appointment for a free consult.