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Do I Qualify for an Adoption in North Carolina?

Two dads playing with daughter

Adopting a child is one of the most rewarding things a person or couple can experience. Here at Blood Law, we’re incredibly proud to have helped hundreds of people achieve their dreams of becoming parents through adoption.

And while we work with couples of all ages, genders, and ethnicities, North Carolina law requires individuals and couples who want to adopt to meet certain requirements.

North Carolina Adoption Requirements

Who Can Adopt

Here in North Carolina, any adult can adopt a child, this includes single people, step-parents, and LGBTQ parents. In order to adopt from the foster care system, you must also be at least 18 years old.

Criminal Background Checks

While going through the process of a foster care adoption, a person must have their fingerprints taken and a criminal record check completed. If the background check finds that you were once convicted of a crime (misdemeanor or felony), it may affect your chances of adopting. However, it’s often not an automatic disqualification.

When determining if a conviction will bar you from adoption, courts will look at the circumstances involving your crime. If it was violent in nature or involved a child, you will likely not be able to adopt. However, if it was not a violent crime, you may be able to explain how you’ve changed since that conviction and still be allowed to adopt.

Parenting Training

Parenting training may be a condition of your adoption, however not all agencies require them.

If you’re looking to become a foster parent, you must attend 30 hours of Trauma-Informed Partnering for Safety and Permanence/Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting.

The Emotional Side Effects

Adopting a child is a huge responsibility and one that should never be taken lightly. In addition to practical measures, like age verification and background checks, adoption specialists will also discuss:

  • Infertility struggles you may have faced.
  • Whether or not you plan on fully embracing an adopted child in the same way you would a biological one.
  • That there will be highs and lows throughout your first few months and years together.
  • If you’ve told friends and family that you plan on adopting.

At Blood Law, PLLC, we believe in helping our clients achieve their goals – no matter how complex their divorce or other family law issue. Our experienced attorneys provide tailored legal services with a unique, team-based approach to do our best to achieve these results.

To learn more about our legal services, contact our lawyers online or give us a call at (704) 286-0570.