What if the biological parent lives in Missouri 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 Missouri, the adoption is filed in YOUR state, not Missouri.

However, if you and the child live in Missouri:

• You file in Missouri Circuit Court
• The biological parent can be served anywhere — in Missouri or in another state
• The adoption follows Missouri law regardless of where the other parent lives
• 6 months residency required (RSMo § 453.010)

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

• You file in YOUR state's court
• The biological parent is served at their Missouri address
• Missouri'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 Missouri can serve the biological parent
• If the parent is cooperative, they can sign consent and have it notarized in Missouri
• If the parent's location in Missouri is unknown, service by publication may be used

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