Serving Chatham & Orange County

Pittsboro Adoption Lawyers for Stepparent and Adult Family Transitions

Legal Clarity for Meaningful Change

Adoption can be a powerful act of care—whether you’re formalizing your role as a stepparent or affirming a relationship between adults. We help families in Pittsboro, Siler City, Chapel Hill, and surrounding communities navigate these specific adoption types with clarity and compassion. Our team provides legal support through every step of the process so you feel confident in what comes next.

A black and white drawing of a house with two people inside of it.
A man and woman are holding a little girl in their arms.

Personal Process, Step-by-Step Guidance

Focused Legal Support

We handle stepparent and adult adoptions—two paths where legal precision and personal care matter deeply. We’ll guide you through consent, paperwork, and hearings so the process feels smooth, respectful, and legally sound.

01

Stepparent Adoption

Legal support for formalizing a stepparent’s role in a child’s life, including consent and court filings.

02

Adult Adoption

Guidance for adults seeking to create a recognized legal relationship—often for care, inheritance, or legacy.

03

Second-Parent Adoption

This term may be familiar to LGBTQ+ couples—today, these adoptions are typically filed as stepparent adoptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long does stepparent adoption take in North Carolina?

    In North Carolina, the process typically takes a few months if consent is given or a parent’s rights are terminated.

  • Do I need the other parent’s consent?

    Yes, in most cases. If the other biological parent is living and their rights haven’t been terminated, consent is usually required.

  • Can same-sex couples pursue stepparent adoption?

    Yes. What was once referred to as second-parent adoption now typically proceeds as a stepparent adoption in NC.

  • Is a home study required?

    Not usually for stepparent or adult adoptions. We’ll walk you through what’s needed for your specific case.

  • Where is the adoption filed?

    These adoptions are handled through the local district court in your county of residence.

  • Do we have to appear in court?

    Yes. There is typically a brief hearing before a judge to finalize the adoption.