The Probate Court processes adoption petitions for direct placement, agency, adult, stepparent, and relative adoptions.  We also accept petitions regarding post-adoption matters, including delayed registration of foreign birth and confidential intermediary services.

General Guidelines

• The petitioners and/or the adoptee must be a resident of Lenawee County.

• This is a legal proceeding; however, the court cannot give legal advice.  The petitioners must determine whether or not they need the assistance of an attorney.

• Adoption packets can be picked up at the Probate Court counter or by contacting the adoption coordinator.  Adoption checklists and most associated forms are available below.

• Filing fees must be paid at the time the petition is submitted.  Fees are addressed on the page dedicated to each particular type of adoption.

• There are four phases in the processing of an adoption: 1) Acceptance and processing of the adoption petition. 2) Completion of the home study investigation/supervision process. 3) Termination of parental rights (except in adult adoptions and foster care adoptions). 4) Confirmation/Finalization of adoption.

• The process takes, on average, 9-12 months.  Case particulars may result in adoption take more or less time.
• Our adoption coordinator is Heidi S. Ross (517-264-4613; heidi.ross@Lenawee.mi.us).
  
  Types of Adoption and Related Services

• Adult Adoption
• Agency Adoption
• Attorney Information
• Delayed Registration of Foreign Birth
• Direct Placement Adoption
• Post Adoption Services
• Relative Adoption
• State Ward Adoptions (Children from Foster Care)
• Stepparent Adoption