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

However, if you and the child live in Rhode Island:

• You file in Rhode Island Family Court
• The biological parent can be served anywhere — in Rhode Island or in another state
• The adoption follows Rhode Island law regardless of where the other parent lives
• 6 months residency required (R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-7-4)

If the biological parent lives in Rhode Island and you live elsewhere:

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

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