If you have already found a match, a private adoption (also known as an independent adoption) may be a good choice.
What Is Private Adoption?
In a private or independent adoption in North Carolina, prospective adoptive parents are advised by an adoption attorney, instead of working through an agency.
In most independent adoptions, the adoptive parents take an active role in identifying the birth mother. There are many different methods, which may include networking with their group of friends or peers, advertising, facilitators, and more. Once the birth parents are identified, they give consent directly to the adoptive parents instead of to an agency.
North Carolina law allows birth fathers to give consent for adoption prior to the child being born, but birth mothers must wait until after the child is born to provide their consent.
Things To Keep In Mind
For many parents, the ability to have more control over the process and playing a direct role in locating their future child is empowering. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Costs can also vary widely, and you can’t control all the variables. Your costs will generally include the following:
- Home study or pre-placement assessment
- Post-placement assessment
- Medical and social histories
- Attorneys’ fees
- Private investigator fees (if required)
- Travel expenses
- Advertising fees
- Any medical fees or complications for the birth mother
- Any other expenses agreed on for the birth mother
Hiring An Adoption Attorney
Because of the laws governing the process and the complexity of adoptions without an adoption agency, working with an experienced partner in independent and private adoptions is key.
An adoption attorney will help you with a private adoption in North Carolina by:
- Providing an unbiased explanation of methods, strategy and resources at hand to help you develop a plan
- Explain your rights and the adoption laws in North Carolina, and refer you to resources that can make the process go smoothly
- Assess the risks and costs involved to ensure you are getting the best results
- Review and negotiate adoption agreements to ensure your interests are protected
- Clarify options for post-placement arrangements with the birth parents to make sure your best interests and the best interests of the child are served
Experience On Your Side
Independent adoptions in North Carolina require an experienced partner at your side. Bobby Mills has practiced adoption law in North Carolina for over 30 years. Call us today at 919-306-2899 to schedule a consultation.
