Facts About Adoption In Michigan
Adoptive parents, birth parents and children often have many questions about adoption. With my extensive experience in adoption law at The Law Office of Dion Roddy, I can help you navigate the often-confusing processes and procedures for adding to your family through adoption. Below you’ll find some quick facts about adoption in Michigan.
How does the “direct placement” process work for birth mothers?
With direct placement adoptions, the birth mother chooses a suitable adoptive family for her child. Michigan law allows an immediate temporary placement with the prospective adoptive parents after birth and before discharge from the hospital pending consent by the birth parent and formal placement of the child by the Michigan court.
Who is eligible to adopt a child in Michigan?
In Michigan, both married couples and single individuals, whether they are residents or nonresidents of Michigan, may adopt a child. Direct adoptions have varying degrees of openness between the birth mother and the adoptive family with contact during the pregnancy and following placement being common and encouraged.
Can adoptive parents help with the birth mother’s expenses?
Yes. Adoptive parents may agree to pay certain living expenses and other adoption related expenses of a birthparent during a birth mother’s pregnancy and for up to six weeks after delivery.
Is a birth parent required to go to court to sign consent?
Michigan law allows a birth parent to sign an out-of-court consent in direct placement adoptions. To ensure everyone’s rights are protected, the birth parent must have their own attorney and receive assistance from a licensed agency social worker when signing this document.
What is a “home study” and is it required?
A pre-placement assessment, commonly referred to as a home study, conducted by a licensed adoption agency within twelve months of the placement is required for prospective adoptive parents. This process includes background checks, FBI clearances, medical clearances, financial information, family history, and an in-home visit from a licensed agency social worker.
What are the adoption rights for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples?
Michigan permits single LGBTQ+ individuals to petition to adopt and allows married same-sex couples to petition jointly. Additionally, most courts permit a same-sex spouse to petition to adopt their partner’s child or children born into the relationship.
How long does it take to finalize the adoption?
Newborn placements have a three-month supervisory period after formal placement by the court. For adoptees older than one year, the supervisory period is six months. The finalization of the adoption by the court after this period will result in an Order of Adoption and issuance of a birth certificate bearing the name of the adoptive parent or parents. For nonresidents adopting under Michigan law, a return to this state for finalization is not necessary.
Are there tax credits available to help with adoption costs?
The Adoption Tax Credit (ATC) covers reasonable and necessary adoption fees, court costs and attorney fees, traveling expenses, and other expenses that are directly related to and for the principal purpose of the legal adoption of an eligible child. In 2025, the maximum adoption tax credit is $17,280 for adoptive parents whose Modified Gross Adjusted Income (MAGI) is $259,190 or less. A phaseout begins for MAGIs over $259,190. The ATC is not available for those who earn $299,190 or more
To Learn More, Contact The Law Office of Dion Roddy Today
If you are ready to explore adoption, contact my office today to schedule a consultation by calling 248-800-1875 or filling out my online contact form. I look forward to speaking with you.