North Carolina § 48-3-502 - Agency entitled to custody in placement by agency.
Full text of North Carolina North Carolina General Statutes § 48-3-502 — Agency entitled to custody in placement by agency., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 48-3-502. Agency entitled to custody in placement by agency.
Unless the court orders otherwise, during a proceeding for adoption in which an agency places the adoptee with the petitioner: The agency retains legal but not physical custody of the adoptee until the adoption decree becomes final; but The agency may delegate to the petitioner responsibility for the care and support of the adoptee. Before a decree of adoption becomes final, the agency may for cause petition the court to dismiss the adoption proceeding and to restore full legal and physical custody of the minor to the agency; and the court may grant the petition on finding that it is in the best interest of the minor. History (1995, c. 457, s. 2.)
Source: official North Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina § 48-3-502
What does North Carolina General Statutes § 48-3-502 cover?
Section 48-3-502 ("Agency entitled to custody in placement by agency.") 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 § 48-3-502?
A common citation format is "North Carolina General Statutes § 48-3-502" (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 § 48-3-502 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.