A step-parent adoption occurs when the custodial parent marries and his or her spouse petitions to adopt the custodial parent’s child, requesting termination of the noncustodial parent’s parental rights for purposes of adoption.

The custodial parent must have sole legal custody of the child. The non-custodial parent may consent to the adoption. If the non-custodial parent does not consent to the adoption, the parent with legal custody of the child may proceed adversarily against the non-custodial parent if the requirements of a number of Michigan statutes can be met.

During the course of a stepparent adoption, the rights of the custodial parent are not terminated and the child is not made a ward of the court.

Consult with a Michigan Attorney About Step-Parent Adoption

If you need assistance with step-parent adoption in Michigan, I welcome you to contact me for a consultation by calling 517-267-1500, sending an email to mary@conklinadoptionlaw.com or completing my online information form. As a Michigan adoption attorney for more than 10 years, I can help you navigate the legal system and guide you through the adoption process.