For many years, only married adults in heterosexual relationships could adopt in Michigan. To the tremendous benefit of children and adoptive parents alike, society’s notions of what constitutes a family have expanded significantly in recent years, along with legal protections that enshrine those notions. For single adults living in Michigan who are looking to adopt, the good news is that you can qualify to adopt just as a married couple could. However, it is important to consider whether you meet the criteria to adopt and how adoption and parenthood could change your life forever.
What Do I Need to Do Before I Adopt a Child?
The individual needs of each child will differ as they grow and develop, but certain criteria must be met before an adult can adopt a child of any age. These include, but are not limited to:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Completing an adoption licensing application
- Completing background checks for yourself and any other adult who lives in your home
- Providing medical statements for yourself and any other household member
- Passing an environmental inspection and on-site visits by a social worker
- Providing three references
- Having adequate bedroom space, which can change depending on the age of the child
Can I Adopt if I Am an Unmarried Parent?
More and more, unmarried individuals who cannot or prefer not to seek a spouse are choosing to raise children on their own. For children without parents, this expanding conception of what family can look like means an increase in adoptions and placement in a forever home. Unmarried men and women who are already parents can add to the love in their homes by adopting another child.
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