In re: K.B., A.M.H., M.S.H.

Summary

The Court held that N.C.G.S. § 7B-903(a1) does not require a trial court to await completion of an ICPC home study before selecting an in-state relative over an out-of-state relative, so long as the in-state relative can provide proper care and supervision and placement is in the child's best interests. Whether proceeding without a home study constitutes an abuse of discretion depends on the circumstances, and the ICPC nevertheless applies before placing a child with an out-of-state relative, including a grandparent. The Court affirmed the guardianship order while leaving undisturbed the separate remand concerning visitation.