We have made great strides in the law in recent years when it comes to equal protection for same-sex marriages. However, nuances in the law continue to make it difficult for same-sex couples to legally participate in parental rights in certain circumstances.
As an established family law firm in Plymouth, Selleck Legal, PLLC, has championed the rights of same-sex and LGBT couples for a decade.
Under Michigan law, the nonbiological parent of a child born to a same-sex couple during the marriage is presumed to be a parent of the child. In situations where the child was born before the law changed to recognize same-sex marriages, or in situations where the child was born before the couple was legally married, the law does not recognize the nonbiological parent as having any legal relationship with the child.
Moreover, in either scenario, the sperm or egg donor may later seek to assert parental rights to the child. It is important to work with an attorney to secure your parental rights legally through the stepparent adoption process.
For same-sex couples seeking an adoption, there are many different options, from open or closed domestic adoptions to international adoptions. What is right for you and your spouse is something our lawyer will discuss with you in a private and confidential consultation. From there, we will help you move forward with your adoption plan and toward expanding your growing family.
Every situation is unique, so it is important that you consult with an experienced lawyer about your own same-sex divorce or LGBT family law matter. To arrange a free consultation with a same-sex adoption lawyer in Plymouth, we invite you to send us a message online now or call 734-729-4459. We represent clients in areas such as Northville, Livonia, Westland and beyond.
