Adoption Attorneys in North Carolina and South Carolina

Adoption is one of the most loving things that you can do for a child during your lifetime. For so many of those who adopt, taking in a child fulfills lifelong dreams and brings innumerable blessings to a home. If you are considering adoption or you have questions about the termination of parental rights, you should have a reputable adoption lawyer on your side who understands North Carolina and South Carolina adoption laws completely.

Trusted in North Carolina and South Carolina for Over 20 Years

If you’re looking for an adoption lawyer in North Carolina or South Carolina, Collins Family & Elder Law Group has more than 20 years of experience in helping local families feel the incomparable joy of family growth. From the initial paperwork stages to the court hearings all the way through to the final moments of bringing home your precious child, our compassionate legal team will be right by your family’s side every step of the way. 

Whether you’re searching out a better home for your child, you’re a step-parent interested in adoption in NC, or you’re trying to adopt an infant or relative, we can ensure a favorable outcome for you and your family.

Important Things to Know About Adoption in North Carolina and South Carolina

Who Can Adopt?

In North Carolina and South Carolina, anyone over the age of 18 can adopt. There are no marriage or minimum income requirements. North Carolina even permits one spouse to adopt with the consent of the other spouse. South Carolina does not specify a minimum age you must be to adopt, but if you intend to be a foster parent and adopt a child in your own foster care, the law requires that you be 21. Adoption laws in NC and SC also require you to pass a background check and complete a home study before you can adopt. 

How Does the Adoption Process Work in North and South Carolina?

Whether you reside in North Carolina or South Carolina, the adoption process can be taxing. It involves extensive documentation, assessments, background checks, resolution of court orders, petitions, and hearings. Prospective parents are thoroughly screened to determine if they are fit to adopt a child. Through the process of adoption, the rights and obligations of a biological parent will be terminated. The courts will only approve an adoption you can prove that the adoption will be in the best interest of the child. An NC or SC adoption lawyer can help you with the termination of parental rights. 

As knowledgeable and experienced adoption attorneys in NC and SC, we know local laws, and we can ensure that all the steps in the adoption process go smoothly and that you’re able to complete your family.

Here are some additional adoption resources on NC and SC adoption laws that may be useful during the adoption process:

Types of Adoption in North and South Carolina

• Private adoption
• Relative adoption
• Step Parent adoption
• Open adoption
• Grandparent adoption

How Much Does Adoption Cost and How Long Does It Take in North and South Carolina?

The cost of adoption varies by state and adoption method. Unfortunately, domestic infant adoption can cost upwards of $40,000 if you work with adoption agencies in NC or SC. An adoption agency’s fees are determined using an income scale that calculates adoption fees for each family based on its annual earnings. But in NC and SC, there are no adoption fees if you adopt a child directly from the foster care system. However, there will be court and legal fees associated with this process, which typically run between $5,000 to $7,000 on average.

What Is a Home Study?

A home study is a process in which a social worker assesses your home to determine whether or not your residence is a safe, healthy, stable place to raise a child. This portion of the adoption process is usually the most nerve-wracking for potential parents, but with one of our seasoned adoption lawyers in NC or SC, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to prepare.

Ready to Adopt? Get a Lawyer for Your Adoption Case in North Carolina or South Carolina

If you are considering adoption, it is crucial to understand your rights and obligations. This selfless act will change the rest of your life! Some people wait for months and even years for their adoption to be finalized. The process involves many legalities and challenges, which can be discouraging and emotionally draining. To ensure that your adoption process goes quickly and smoothly, it is imperative that you speak with a knowledgeable adoption attorney who understands NC and SC adoption laws, courts, and processes completely. 

You can rely on Collins Family & Elder Law Group to help your family. We are strong, compassionate, and dedicated NC and SC adoption attorneys, and we want to see you succeed. Take the first step toward the bliss of adoption by calling us today at (704) 289-3250.

Ready to Adopt?

Collins Family & Elder Law Group wants to help you experience the bliss of adoption! Call us today: (704) 289-3250