Adoptions

The Morris County Surrogate’s Court is responsible for processing all adoptions in the county. As part of this process, the Surrogate reviews and files the Complaint for Adoption, Order Fixing Date for Hearing, and Final Judgment of Adoption.

Depending on the type of adoption, such as agency, private, step-parent, or adult adoption, additional documents may be required. Please note that a Complaint for Adoption cannot be filed until the child has lived in the adoptive home for the legally required period of time, which varies based on the type of adoption.

For guidance or to begin the process, please contact our Adoptions Clerk, Mary Ellen Grundy, at MGrundy@co.morris.nj.us or 973-285-6504.