Adoption by step father

What is the name of your state? Michigan

My husband of 2 years has wanted to adopt my daughter who is now almost 6yrs old. He has been the only man that she has known as "daddy". My husband has known her since she was just 3 months old. so in her mind he is daddy.Her bio-dad has never made an attempt to see her. He was ordered to pay child support shortly after she was born but hasn't paid for about 2 years now. When my husband petitions for the adoption can we declare her as abandoned? and will this speed up the process. I must add that I was never married to her bio-dad. And that his name has never been placed on her birth certificate. Further more how do we get the ball rolling on this.
Thanks in advance for any and all advice.

ps can you tell me what forms we have to fill out if possible

The only advoce I can offer it to call the local courthouse, but I had to write to say I'm glad to see a true dad in the picture for your little girl! Biology means nothing to true parenting!

You'll have to either:

1. Hire a lawyer to handle the adoption for you and to explain the law of adoption in your state.

OR

2. Go to a good library or bookstore and educate yourself on the issues and do your own adoption paperwork.

I doubt anyone on these boards will be willing to take the hours necessary to explain the entire area of adoption law to you.

Once you feel up to speed on adoption law, after doing some of your own legwork, come back to us with any specific questions you might have.

Best of luck to you!