In Michigan, adopting a relative—known as a kinship adoption—is often a more streamlined process than a non-relative adoption, but it still requires careful legal steps. These types of adoptions typically involve grandparents, aunts, uncles, adult siblings or even stepparents stepping in to provide permanent care for a child when the biological parents are unable or unwilling to do so.
Kinship adoption often begins with a relative already caring for the child on a temporary basis, either informally or through a guardianship. When it’s clear that a permanent arrangement is in the child’s best interest, adoption may be pursued to establish legal parentage and provide the child with stability, inheritance rights and access to benefits like health insurance and Social Security.
Moving forward
The first legal step in a relative adoption is typically the termination of the biological parents’ parental rights. This may happen voluntarily, if the parents consent, or involuntarily, if the court finds that the parents are unfit due to abuse, neglect, substance abuse or abandonment. In Michigan, stepparents and other relatives may be able to bypass certain procedures—such as a full home study or waiting period—if the court determines those steps are unnecessary.
Once parental rights have been terminated, the prospective adoptive relative must file a petition for adoption with the family court in the county where the child resides. In some cases, the court may still request a background check or limited evaluation to ensure the home environment is safe and supportive. A hearing will be scheduled where a judge will review the circumstances and, if all legal requirements are met, finalize the adoption.
If you are considering adopting a relative in Michigan, it’s wise to consult an experienced legal team as proactively as possible. The legal process involves important documentation and court proceedings, and professional guidance can help to ensure that the transition is smooth, respectful and that it unfolds in ways that reflect the child’s best interest.