What if I don't know where the biological parent is in Kentucky?

This is very common and does NOT prevent the adoption. When the biological parent's whereabouts are unknown, Kentucky law allows service by publication — a legal notice published in a newspaper.

Here's how it works in Kentucky:

1. You (or the sheriff) attempt service at the last known address

2. If that fails, you file a motion for service by publication

3. A notice is published in a newspaper in the area where the parent was last known to live

4. The parent has a set period to respond (they almost never do)

5. The adoption proceeds

We include all the necessary documents for service by publication in your package. The newspaper typically charges $50–$150 for the notice. This adds about 4–6 weeks to the timeline but is a routine part of Kentucky family law.

In our 25+ years of experience, the vast majority of parents served by publication never respond, and the adoption is approved.