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

However, if you and the child live in Ohio:

• You file in Ohio Probate Court
• The biological parent can be served anywhere — in Ohio or in another state
• The adoption follows Ohio law regardless of where the other parent lives
• 6 months residency required (ORC § 3107.03)

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

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

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