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Building a family is one of life’s most beautiful and transformative journeys. For queer families, the process can come with unique challenges—especially when it comes to adoption and navigating other legal aspects of family life. Whether you’re adopting a child who is already part of your family—through birth, fostering, or as a stepchild—or considering other forms of adoption, it’s essential to make sure that all children are legally recognized as yours. This is especially important if you want to ensure that your family stays together, with both parents having legal rights over all children in the family, no matter their biological connection.

Adoption isn’t just about welcoming a child into your home; it’s about securing their legal status and rights as part of your family. Whether you’re pursuing second-parent adoption, stepparent adoption, or any other legal avenue, finding the right legal resources and support is crucial to ensure that your family is protected. Here’s a friendly guide to help you find the local legal resources you need to make sure your family stays united, legally and emotionally.

1. Start with Local LGBTQ+ Legal Advocacy Groups

Many cities and regions have organizations dedicated to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, including family law. These groups often provide resources, workshops, and legal consultations tailored to the needs of queer families. Look for groups that specialize in family law, adoption, and parenting. They can help guide you through the adoption process, explain the legal steps, and connect you to queer-friendly lawyers.

National organizations Lambda Legal and the Family Equality Council provide extensive resources and may have local affiliates or partnerships with attorneys in your area.

Northstar Alliance in Winston-Salem and Guilford Green Foundation in Greensboro are fantastic local resources!

See below for local attorney recommendations!

 

2. Consult with an LGBTQ+ Friendly Family Lawyer

Adoption can be a complex legal process, and it’s important to work with an attorney who understands the unique legal needs of LGBTQ+ parents. An LGBTQ+ family lawyer can help with everything from second-parent adoption to ensuring that both parents are legally recognized, even if one of you is the biological parent. Look for lawyers who have experience working with queer families, as they will be familiar with the nuances of legal issues related to marriage, parenthood, and adoption.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their experience with LGBTQ+ cases, and see if they offer initial consultations. Many attorneys will work with clients on a sliding scale or offer a flat rate for adoption cases.

These local firms are ready and able to guide and support you and your family: 

LGBT Lawyers of Winston-Salem

Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, Attorneys at Law (Greensboro)

Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Altamura LLP (Asheboro)

3. Know Your Rights and Protections

In many places, LGBTQ+ parents are entitled to the same rights and protections as their heterosexual counterparts. However, this isn’t always guaranteed. Laws vary by state and even by county, so it’s important to be informed. For example, in some states, second-parent adoption may be necessary to ensure both parents have legal custody of a child, even if both parents are married. In other states, adoption laws might not be as inclusive, and you might need additional legal steps to ensure your rights are fully recognized.

Your local LGBTQ+ legal resources can help you understand the specific laws in your area and how they apply to your family.

4. Build Community and Share Experiences

Joining local affirming and queer parenting groups, either in person or online, is a great way to connect with other families who have gone through similar legal processes. These communities can offer support, share recommendations for legal resources, and provide a sense of solidarity as you navigate your family-building journey.

I welcome you to join Hearts Wide Open: Parenting in the Piedmont for Moms and Non-Binary Parents!

No matter where you are in your process, know that there is support available. By reaching out to local LGBTQ+ legal resources and experts, you can ensure that your family’s legal rights are protected, giving you the peace of mind to focus on what matters most—growing your family with love and care.

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