What if the biological parent lives in Indiana but I live in another state?
IndianaYou 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 Indiana, the adoption is filed in YOUR state, not Indiana.
However, if you and the child live in Indiana:
- You file in Indiana Circuit or Superior Court
- The biological parent can be served anywhere — in Indiana or in another state
- The adoption follows Indiana law regardless of where the other parent lives
- 6 months residency required (Ind. Code § 31-19-2-4)
If the biological parent lives in Indiana and you live elsewhere:
- You file in YOUR state's court
- The biological parent is served at their Indiana address
- Indiana'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 Indiana can serve the biological parent
- If the parent is cooperative, they can sign consent and have it notarized in Indiana
- If the parent's location in Indiana is unknown, service by publication may be used
Cost: $349 regardless of which state | Call (855) 924-0450 to discuss your multi-state situation.
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