Adoption Services

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.

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