The father of my son has not contacted him in more than a year now. I don't know where his whereabouts are and I want to file for child abandonment. I have full custody of my son and my husband would like to adopt him. Can I file it myself or is a Lawyer really necessary.
In Michigan, most Judges are very hesitant to terminate a father's parental rights unless there is a step-father who is willing to step in and legally adopt the child/children.
You should definitely hire counsel. An adoption is a very significant legal procedure and cuts off the rights of a parent forever if done properly. If not done properly, it can be a disaster with the other parent coming back years later trying to enforce his or her rights, sometimes successfully obtaining custody.
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