Matter of Custody of Rooker

HILL, Judge.

“A final decree of adoption for life terminates the relationship between the natural parents and the child, and the natural parents are divested of all rights with respect to the child.” (Emphasis added.) G.S. 48-23. Rhodes v. Henderson, 14 N.C. App. 404, 188 S.E. 2d 565 (1972).

Hence, the position of the petitioner is no greater than that of a stranger to the child. Rhodes v. Henderson, supra.

What right does a stranger have under the provisions of G.S. 50-13.1? This statute states substantially as follows:

Any parent, relative, or other person, . . . claiming the right to custody…