What if the biological parent lives in Hawaii but I live in another state?

You file where YOU and the child live — not where the biological parent lives. If you live in another state but the biological parent is in Hawaii, the adoption is filed in YOUR state, not Hawaii.

However, if you and the child live in Hawaii:

• You file in Hawaii Family Court
• The biological parent can be served anywhere — in Hawaii or in another state
• The adoption follows Hawaii law regardless of where the other parent lives
• 6 months residency required (HRS § 578-2)

If the biological parent lives in Hawaii and you live elsewhere:

• You file in YOUR state's court
• The biological parent is served at their Hawaii address
• Hawaii's laws do not govern — your state's laws do
• Contact us and we'll prepare documents for your state

Cross-state service of process:

• A sheriff or process server in Hawaii can serve the biological parent
• If the parent is cooperative, they can sign consent and have it notarized in Hawaii
• If the parent's location in Hawaii is unknown, service by publication may be used

Cost: $349 regardless of which state | Call (855) 924-0450 to discuss your multi-state situation.