What are New Jersey's adoption laws?

New Jersey adoption is governed by New Jersey Statutes Title 9, Chapter 3. Here are the key provisions:

Residency: 6 months (N.J.S.A. § 9:3-43)

Court: Superior Court

Child Consent: Age 10+ (N.J.S.A. § 9:3-47)

Abandonment: 6 months no contact (N.J.S.A. § 9:3-46)

Termination: Can be included in adoption proceeding

Home Study: Typically waived for stepparents (N.J.S.A. § 9:3-48)

Timeline: Minor: 3-6 months | Adult: 4-8 weeks

New Jersey has 21 counties, each with its own Superior Court. Our documents are customized for your specific countie's requirements.

We've helped 1,204+ families in New Jersey navigate these laws successfully.