It sounds scary, but don’t worry. We will help you understand and work within the law so that you get the care you deserve.
If you are a minor (under age 18), the State of Michigan requires that you obtain written parental consent for abortion or a judicial bypass for abortion. The women who work at Northland Family Planning are warm, friendly and caring. Whether you need a judicial bypass or help finding a way to talk with your parents or guardians, we are committed to helping you understand and manage Michigan’s teenage pregnancy abortion law.
The Law
The State of Michigan passed a law that is referred to as the Parental Consent abortion law or the Judicial Bypass law. Simply stated, this law requires any minor (under age 18) to have a parent’s consent to have an abortion or obtain a judicial bypass from a judge. The judge does not decide if you can have an abortion, a judge decides if you are mature enough to make your own decision.
If you have the permission of your parents
You or your parent(s) or legal guardian can make an abortion appointment at NFP. You can also come in for free pregnancy options counseling (with or without a parent or legal guardian). The parent or legal guardian must be with you on the day of your abortion and sign all the legal and medical paperwork including the informed consent form.
If you want to talk with one of your parents or a guardian but are feeling scared or ashamed…
Call our office and ask to speak with one of our counselors who will offer you advice on ways to talk to your parents. Many young women who are afraid or ashamed to face their parents, bring their parent(s) in to our clinic and, together, we tell them that their daughter is pregnant. We stand by your side.
A web site, momdadimpregnant, sponsored by the Abortion Conversation Project (ACP), offers helpful information on talking to your parents.
If you need the Judicial Bypass
We know from experience, that it is helpful to meet with our counselors face-to-face so you can get accurate medical information, confirm your pregnancy and have the opportunity to talk about your feelings. Many judges – and patients – have found this to be an important first step in defining maturity.
When you come in, we will verify your pregnancy and get basic health information. Our counselors will prepare you to meet with your attorney and explain what it is like to go in front of the judge. We also explain the abortion procedure so that you understand the surgery and the after care. Most judges will ask you about this.
You will receive the name and phone number of the attorney who has agreed to help you seek a judicial waiver from a judge. This lawyer will work with you – free of charge – to obtain the Judicial Bypass. If you cannot come in to our office to meet with a counselor, please call us. We will have a conversation with you and provide the phone numbers for the local attorney.
If you need a judicial bypass, click here for more information.
RESOURCES
Sponsored by the Abortion Conversation Project (ACP), which is composed of abortion providers and their allies, this site contains helpful information for teens, parents and friends on making the abortion decision. http://www.momdadimpregnant.com