How much does service of process cost for adoption in Delaware?

Service of process for stepparent adoption in Delaware typically costs $50–$150, depending on the method used.

Cost by method:

• Sheriff service: ~$50 — the sheriff's office delivers adoption papers to the biological parent
• Private process server: $50–$100 — a private company handles delivery
• Certified mail: $10–$20 (available in some Delaware counties)
• Service by publication: $50–$150 — a legal notice published in a newspaper (used when the parent's location is unknown)

When service costs $0:

• If the biological parent voluntarily signs consent, formal service may not be needed
• If the biological parent is deceased (death certificate replaces service)
• If parental rights were already terminated by a prior court order

For adult adoption (18+):

• No service of process is needed — only the adult adoptee's consent is required
• This saves $50–$150

Total adoption cost in Delaware:

• Our document preparation: $349
• Court filing fees: $100–$400
• Service of process: $50–$150
• Background check: $50–$100
• Total: approximately $650–$850

Compare to a Delaware attorney: $2,500–$5,000+