Infant adoption in North Carolina is a great way to expand your family.
Adoption is a wonderful way to add to your family, and if you're a North Carolina adult, odds are you're eligible to adopt. The state allows those ages 21 to 65 to adopt children, whether married or single, though couples must be married for at least one year before adopting. Babies, as opposed to older children, are in high demand, and sometimes mean you must wait a while until a baby is placed for adoption.
Instructions
1. Decide whether you want a closed or open adoption and what type of child you are looking to adopt. Consider how important it is to you to adopt an infant, as opposed to an older child. Babies are in high demand, and it may be that you can bring the new addition to your family home much sooner if you're willing to consider a toddler instead, for example. Also think about whether you would be comfortable adopting a child of a different race or with disabilities. Discuss all these questions with your partner, if applicable. Knowing what you want and where you're flexible before you begin the process will save you time and worry later on.
2. Choose an adoption agency or attorney. If you know anyone who has adopted, ask if they would recommend their agency or adoption lawyer or if they know of any other available agents. Research agencies and attorneys, then contact them directly to request literature and ask them your specific questions so you can compare the services they offer.
3. Apply for a home study. This is an interview and inspection of your home by a qualified social worker to confirm that you will make a suitable parent and your home a suitable environment for a child. Your adoption agency or attorney will be able to direct you to licensed home study agencies and give you instructions and advice on the process. Some adoption agencies may even arrange your home study as part of the services included in your fee.
4. Listen to your agency or adoption lawyer for instructions on proceed further. These instructions will likely involve initial paperwork concerning your relationship with the agency or attorney, a waiting period, meetings with the birth parents whose children you may adopt, legal negotiations before the child is born, and more paperwork after the birth to formally make the child a member of your family.
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