LGBTQ Adoption & Legal Parenting in the Piedmont‑Triad: A Practical Guide

Building Legal Security for Queer Families in the Piedmont Triad

For LGBTQ+ families living in Winston-Salem, Greensboro, High Point, and surrounding areas of the Piedmont Triad, the path to legal parenthood and family protection often includes unique challenges. While North Carolina now recognizes same-sex marriages, queer families—especially those growing through adoption, assisted reproduction, or blended families—must take extra steps to ensure that all parents are legally recognized.

This guide is designed to help LGBTQ+ parents in the Triad navigate adoption laws, secure legal protections, and connect with affirming legal support in our local area.

LGBTQ+ Adoption in North Carolina—What You Need to Know

While adoption is legally available to LGBTQ+ individuals and married couples in North Carolina, second-parent adoption (where a non-biological, non-married partner adopts a child without the other parent losing parental rights) is still not permitted. This presents specific legal hurdles for families formed outside of marriage or through assisted reproduction.

Common pathways for LGBTQ+ families seeking legal parenthood include:

• Stepparent adoption (only available if legally married to the biological or adoptive parent)

• Joint adoption for married same-sex couples

• Adoption of a partner’s biological child after marriage

• Confirmatory adoption (especially important in cases involving donor conception)

If you’re raising a child but not legally recognized as a parent, adoption is often the only way to establish enforceable rights under state and federal law.

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)

Camino Law

 

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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