Are there any special requirements for adoption in Michigan?

Yes. Michigan stepparent adoptions go through the Family Division of Circuit Court in your county under Michigan Compiled Laws Chapter 710, and a few requirements are worth knowing before you start.

Residency: Michigan sets no minimum residency period (MCL § 710.24(1)). Michigan courts can grant the adoption as long as you, your spouse, or the child is a Michigan resident. The other parent living in another state does not prevent the adoption.

Child's consent: If your stepchild is 14 or older, their consent is part of the process (MCL § 710.43).

The other parent's rights: If the other parent will not consent, the court looks at whether there has been abandonment. Michigan uses a 24-month period (MCL § 710.51). Paying child support alone does not prevent an abandonment finding, because the court looks at the whole relationship, including emotional support, contact, and genuine interest in the child's welfare. Contested situations and cases where the other parent is unknown depend heavily on the facts, so talk to the court clerk or an attorney about your specific circumstances.

Background check: Michigan requires a criminal background check. Minor infractions rarely prevent approval.

Home study: Michigan does not simply waive the home study for stepparents. The court directs an investigation under MCL § 710.46. Ask the Family Division of Circuit Court clerk in your county how this works locally and what to expect.

Attorney: You are not required to hire one. Michigan allows self-representation in stepparent adoptions.

Who can adopt:

• Same-sex couples can complete a stepparent adoption. Michigan recognizes all valid marriages and allows stepparent adoption regardless of the couple's gender.
• You can include more than one stepchild in a single petition.
• Adult adoption is permitted in Michigan. The adult being adopted must consent. For adult-specific questions, such as notice to the adoptee's parents or your spouse joining the petition, the court clerk or an attorney can confirm the details for your situation.

Time and cost: Stepparent adoptions in Michigan typically take 3-6 months. Adult adoptions typically take 4-8 weeks. Court filing fees generally run $200-$500, and the total typical cost is under $1,000. For the exact fee and local filing procedures, the clerk in your county can confirm the current amount.

Other details: The clerk can also confirm any county-specific forms, hearing practices, or minimum-age questions for the adopting parent. The Michigan data we work from does not list a minimum age for adopters.