When most people think of adoption, they think of a baby who is relinquished by the parents and adopted right then by another family. That isn’t always the way that adoptions work. In fact, Michigan recognizes six types of adoptions, each of which are slightly different from the others.
What is an adult adoption?
An adult adoption occurs when one adult adopts another adult. This makes the person who is adopted the heir to the adopted parent’s estate.
What is a relative adoption?
A relative adoption occurs when someone related to a child adopts the child. The relative must meet certain requirements.
What is a step-parent adoption?
A step-parent adoption occurs when a custodial parent of a child remarries and that spouse adopts the child. The non-custodial parent must either have their rights terminated or agree to the adoption.
What is an interstate or intercounty adoption?
These adoptions occur when the child is from another state or county and the adoptive family is in Michigan. When certain criteria are met, the child’s adoption can be completed here and Michigan birth certificate can be issued.
What is a state and court ward adoption?
A state and court ward adoption occurs when a child is a ward of the court or a ward of the state. This is usually the case if the child’s parents’ rights were terminated. These adoptions usually involve the Department of Human Services, and they can involve infants, older children, or family groups of children.
What is an infant adoptions?
An infant adoption occurs when a baby is placed with their adoptive parents at birth. In some cases, the placement with the adoptive family is temporary. That is only possible if the adoptive family has completed all requirements to adopt the baby. The adoptions are usually direct placement adoptions or agency adoptions.
In all adoptions, it is crucial to ensure that you know your rights and responsibilities. Doing so can help you to be sure that you are doing what you are supposed to do for the adoption to be considered legal.
Source: State of Michigan Department of Human Services, “Adopting a Child in Michigan,” accessed Aug. 01, 2016
