Adoption

General Information
This information is meant to assist with frequently asked questions. This is a legal proceeding; however, the court cannot give legal advice. The Petitioner(s) must determine whether they need the assistance of an attorney.
  • The Petitioner(s) and / or the Adoptee must be a resident of Calhoun County.
  • Filing Fee:  $175.00 per petition.  Each Adoptee has a separate file.
  • Investigation Fee: $300.00 per family, not per petition.  Note: this does not apply to State Ward/MCI adoptions
  • Filing fees must be paid at the time the petition is submitted by cash, MasterCard/Visa, check or money order payable to:  37th Circuit Court.
  • A request to waive filing fees may be made to the court by submitting a Fee Waiver Request if the Petitioner meets the financial guidelines.
  • Petitioner(s) are responsible for providing notice as directed by the Court, to include Personal Service or Service by Publication and the fees associated with those services.

Contact Information

Mail or hand deliver documents to:
Calhoun County Justice Center
Attn:  Circuit Court-Adoptions
161 E. Michigan Avenue
Battle Creek, MI 49014

Phone:   
269-969-6518
Email:
37thcircuitcourt@calhouncoutymi.gov
Hours:   
8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.    
Closed:  12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.

Stages of an Adoption Case
1. Filing and processing the Petition for Adoption at the Circuit Court Clerk's Office.     
2. Court Investigation is ordered and completed.     
3. Termination of existing parental rights.
4. Consent Hearing, if Adoptee is over the age of 14 years.
5. Finalization of adoption.

Additional Resources
SCAO Approved Index of Adoption Forms:   SCAO Adoption Forms
Michigan Legal Help (Stepparent Adoptions):    Home | Michigan Legal Help

Adult Adoption

Direct Placement

Guardianship Adoptions

Relative Adoption

State Ward / MCI Adoption

Stepparent Adoption

Post Adoption