Can LGBTQ+ Couples or Singles Adopt in South Carolina?

Can LGBTQ+ Couples or Singles Adopt in South
Carolina?

Yes, absolutely.

In South Carolina and across the U.S., LGBTQ+ individuals and couples have the legal right
to adopt. Since the Supreme Court’s decision legalizing same-sex marriage in 2015, the path to
adoption has opened up nationwide. You can adopt as a single parent, as a married same-sex
couple, or as a stepparent in a blended family.

At Indigo Family Law, we’ve helped many same-sex couples adopt children, finalize second-
parent adoptions, and navigate the foster care system as LGBTQ+ individuals.

Do I Have to Be Straight to Adopt a Child
in South Carolina?

Short answer: No. Long answer: Still no—but let’s break it down.

At Indigo Family Law, we often get asked if someone needs to be in a traditional, heterosexual
relationship to adopt. The good news? You don’t have to be straight to adopt. Whether you’re
gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, or somewhere in between—it’s not your sexual
orientation that matters in the eyes of the law. It’s your ability to provide a safe, stable, and
loving home.

Busting the Myth: “Only Straight Couples Can Adopt”

This harmful myth still lingers, but it has no legal weight.

Here’s what really matters when you’re trying to adopt in South Carolina:

• Are you financially and emotionally stable?
• Do you have a safe home environment?
• Can you pass a background check and home study?
• Are you ready to take on the legal and lifelong responsibilities of parenthood?

Your relationship status or gender identity isn’t on the disqualifying list. Your readiness to parent
is.

South Carolina Adoption Requirements (Regardless of
Orientation)

Whether you’re LGBTQ+ or not, South Carolina adoption law requires:

• A completed home study (includes background checks, interviews, and home visits)
• At least 21 years old
• Legal residency in the U.S.
• Consent from biological parents or termination of their rights
• Court approval as being in the best interest of the child

We handle all of this for you—from paperwork to court appearances—so you can focus on
preparing to grow your family.

LGBTQ+ Adoption and the Child’s Best Interests

Every adoption is evaluated based on the child’s best interests. Numerous studies have shown
that children raised by LGBTQ+ parents thrive just as well—emotionally, socially, and
academically—as those raised by straight couples.

In fact, same-sex couples are more likely to adopt or foster children than opposite-sex
couples. Love makes a family—not orientation.

Legal Tips for LGBTQ+ Adoptions

Here are a few legal reminders if you’re an LGBTQ+ individual or couple thinking about
adoption in South Carolina:

• Married same-sex couples should pursue joint adoption to ensure full parental rights.
• Unmarried LGBTQ+ partners may face more legal hurdles—consult a family law
attorney to ensure protection.
• Second-parent (or stepparent) adoptions are common in LGBTQ+ families and can
legally secure the non-biological parent’s role.
• If you’re fostering with the intent to adopt, some agencies may have religious affiliations
that affect their openness to LGBTQ+ applicants. A good attorney can help you find
inclusive paths forward.

Why Choose Indigo Family Law for Your LGBTQ+
Adoption?

At Indigo Family Law, we believe every loving home deserves the chance to grow. Whether
you’re straight, gay, trans, married, partnered, or single—we’re here to guide you through the
process with compassion, experience, and zero judgment.

We know adoption law inside and out. More importantly, we understand the real-life emotions
and challenges that come with building a family in a system that hasn’t always been inclusive.
We’re not just lawyers—we’re advocates.

Ready to Start Your Adoption Journey?

Let’s talk. Whether you’re adopting as an LGBTQ+ couple, a single parent, or navigating
stepparent adoption, we’re here for you.

Call Indigo Family Law at (843) 215-6100 or schedule a consultation online today.

Your future child doesn’t care who you love—they just want to be loved. Let’s make it happen.