Independent Private Adoption

independent adoption in north carolina

If you have already found a match, an independent adoption (also known as a direct or private adoption) may be a good choice.

An independent adoption, a prospective adoptive parent identifies an adoption opportunity by direct outreach, advertising, or through a facilitator.

It is called an independent adoption because the birth parent places the child directly with the prospective adoptive parent and there is no agency acting as an intermediary.

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 risks an options
• Explain your rights and the adoption laws in North Carolina, and refer you to other helpful resources that can make the process go smoothly
• Assess the risks and costs involved to ensure you are fully informed
• 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 919-533-4025 to schedule a consultation.