Are there any special requirements for adoption in Tennessee?

Yes, Tennessee has some specific requirements to be aware of:

1. Tennessee requires: Petition for Adoption Sworn statement of financial responsibility Spouse's consent to adoption Filin

2. Tennessee allows: Personal service by sheriff or process server Service by publication if location unknown (after dilige

3. Tennessee allows service by publication when you can't locate the other parent after a diligent search.

4. Tennessee doesn't specify a minimum marriage duration, but courts generally prefer to see a stable relationship.

Standard requirements also apply:

• 6 months Tennessee residency (Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-1-115)
• Background check for the adopting stepparent
• Child consent if age 14+ (Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-1-117)
• Home study waived for stepparents (Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-1-116)

We know all of Tennessee's specific requirements and include everything you need in your document package. We've helped 967+ families in Tennessee navigate these requirements successfully.