When a parent places a child for adoption with someone (other than a very close relative) who lives in another state, it is called an interstate adoption. Adoptions across state lines must follow the rules in the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children.

Special rules apply to interstate adoptions. Adoptions across state lines must follow the rules in the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC). Each state has its own rules – the state where the child is born and the state where the adoptive parents are from. It is crucial that adoptive parents follow the rules in both states in adoptions.  Adoptive parents must obtain permission from both states before the child can leave the sending state and enter the receiving state where the adoptive parents live.

The failure to follow those rules can cause expensive delay in adoptive parents returning home. Once a child has entered the receiving state it is very difficult to retroactively comply with these requirements. If the rules are not followed, the adoption may not be completed.

It is important to hire an experienced adoption lawyer to provide advice when a child is crossing states lines. You can identify an experienced adoption lawyer in your area by contacting a Family Law Specialist certified by the NC State Bar or by contacting the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys.

Family Law Specialists are certified by the NC State Bar. To be certified as a Family Law Specialist, a lawyer must have substantial involvement in the practice area, pass an examination and receive recommendations from their peers. The NC State Bar maintains a list of specialists. Visit their website www.ncbar.org

The American Academy of Adoption Attorneys (AAAA)  is an organization of experienced adoption lawyers. Their website provides a list of attorneys by state and other useful resources. Attorneys invited to become an AAAA fellow have significant experience in adoption law, and must meet the highest standards of ethics, competence, and professionalism.