North Carolina § 48-3-402 - Authorization required to transfer physical custody.
Full text of North Carolina North Carolina General Statutes § 48-3-402 — Authorization required to transfer physical custody., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 48-3-402. Authorization required to transfer physical custody.
A health care facility or attending practitioner who has physical custody may release a minor for the purpose of adoption to a prospective adoptive parent or agency not legally entitled to the custody of the minor if, in the presence of an employee of the health care facility or the attending practitioner: A parent, guardian, or other person or entity having legal custody of the minor signs an authorization of the transfer of physical custody; and The authorization states that the release is for the purpose of adoption. The health care facility or attending practitioner shall retain the authorization described in subsection (a) of this section for at least one year. History (1995, c. 457, s. 2.) PART 5. CUSTODY OF MINORS PENDING FINAL DECREE OF ADOPTION.
Source: official North Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina § 48-3-402
What does North Carolina General Statutes § 48-3-402 cover?
Section 48-3-402 ("Authorization required to transfer physical custody.") is part of the North Carolina General Statutes, the codified statutory law of North Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite North Carolina § 48-3-402?
A common citation format is "North Carolina General Statutes § 48-3-402" (North Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of North Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Carolina attorney.
How does North Carolina § 48-3-402 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in North Carolina.