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

However, if you and the child live in New Jersey:

• You file in New Jersey Superior Court
• The biological parent can be served anywhere — in New Jersey or in another state
• The adoption follows New Jersey law regardless of where the other parent lives
• 6 months residency required (N.J.S.A. § 9:3-43)

If the biological parent lives in New Jersey and you live elsewhere:

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

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