Legal Question in Family Law in Michigan
step-parent adoption?
I am living in Michigan. I have a six year old daughter (will be seven in March) who's bio father lives in California. Yes, he pays child support (court ordered within the last 4 years because I was on state-aid), however he has only seen her once (on her first birthday). I was very generous when we went to court for child support and I offered him plenty of visitation (supervised by me until she got to know him). He has NEVER made an effort to meet/get to know her. She has spoken to him on the phone TWICE over the last year. My question is this: My significant other (we are not married yet, but are planning on getting married and are willing to be married quickly if necessary) wants to adopt my daughter. She refers to my sig. other as her dad. I do not think that her bio father will be willing to sign off his rights as he is paying child support (I have not asked him to yet). What I want to know is what I should do? (Do I have a case for abandonment?? I think it would be detrimental to my daughter to get involved with her bio father at this point in her life.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: step-parent adoption?
If he has no interest in being a father to your child, this may be easier than you think. In order for your significant other to adopt your daughter, the bio father has to renounce his parental rights. Offer him the chance to rid himself of child support payments, after he renounces his parental rights and new husband adopts your daughter, he will no longer be liable for any future child support. This does not address any arrearages he may have as that is up to the State of Michigan. For more info., please contact my office at (248)851-3171.
Re: step-parent adoption?
Forget the adoption unless he consents. Bill Stern 248-353-9400
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