Can I adopt my stepchild if I'm in the military stationed in Michigan?

Yes, you can pursue a stepparent adoption in Michigan while stationed there. The case is filed in the Family Division of Circuit Court (often called Family Court) in the county where your family lives. Michigan has 83 counties, and the process is the same for military and civilian families.

Residency: Michigan sets no minimum residency period for filing (MCL § 710.24(1)). Michigan courts can grant a stepparent adoption as long as you, your spouse, or the child is a Michigan resident. If you aren't sure how your military assignment affects your residency, the Family Division of Circuit Court clerk in your county can confirm it.

What the process involves:

• Consent from your stepchild at 14: Michigan sets the child consent age at 14 (MCL § 710.43).
• The other parent: Their rights must be properly addressed, either through their consent or through a court finding. Michigan's abandonment period is 24 months (MCL § 710.51). Child support payments alone don't prevent an abandonment finding, because the court looks at the overall relationship, including contact, emotional support, and genuine interest in the child.
• Home study and background check: A home study falls under MCL § 710.46, and a criminal background check is required. Michigan allows courts to waive the home study in some stepparent cases when it's in the child's best interest, so ask the clerk how that applies to you.
• Timeline: Stepparent adoptions in Michigan typically take 3-6 months.
• Cost: Court filing fees run about $200-$500, and the total typically comes to under $1,000. Michigan allows you to represent yourself, so an attorney isn't required.

Military-specific questions: The data we rely on for Michigan doesn't address how deployment, a move, or a transfer might affect your case. That includes scheduling a hearing if you're away, or what happens if you're reassigned while the case is open. Ask the court clerk about those details. Your installation's legal assistance office can also help with military-specific questions, such as benefits eligibility after the adoption.

When to talk to an attorney: If the other parent contests the adoption, can't be located, or your situation is complicated, an attorney can advise you on that specific issue. The clerk can explain court procedures but can't give legal advice.

Same-sex couples and multiple children: Michigan recognizes all valid marriages and allows stepparent adoption regardless of the couple's gender. You can also include more than one stepchild in a single petition.