Is there a waiting period between filing and the hearing in New Jersey?

Yes — most New Jersey counties have a waiting period between filing the adoption petition and scheduling the finalization hearing. This is built into the overall 3-6 months timeline.

What happens during the waiting period:

1. Service of process — the biological parent must be served and given time to respond (typically 20–30 days)

2. Background check — fingerprint-based criminal check takes 3–4 weeks

3. Response period — the court allows time for the biological parent to file a response

4. Court scheduling — once all requirements are met, the hearing is scheduled

Can the waiting period be shortened?

• If the biological parent signs consent immediately, service and response time are eliminated
• If the background check comes back quickly, one less thing to wait for
• You can request an expedited hearing from the Superior Court (not always granted)
• Adult adoption (18+) has minimal waiting — typically 4-8 weeks

What you can do during the wait:

• Gather any remaining documents
• Plan the finalization celebration
• Prepare your child for the hearing
• Shop for adoption day outfits!

The key is starting today — the waiting period begins when you file, so every day you delay pushes the finalization further out.

Cost: $349 | Start now at stepparentadoption360.com/questionnaire