Adoption Day ceremony still tugs at Justice's heart strings

In treasured photos from two Adoption Day events, Justice Stephen Markman is pictured (at right) with a toddler who may well hold her own gavel someday. At left, Markman was on hand for a 2011 ceremony in Pontiac, sharing a smile with Linda Hallmark, then chief judge of the Oakland County Probate Court, along with the Highlen family.

Photo courtesy of Justice Markman and John Meiu
 

By Tom Kirvan
Legal News

On the state appellate bench for the past 25 years, Supreme Court Justice Stephen Markman has earned a reputation as a no-nonsense type of jurist, demanding preparedness and utmost excellence from those appearing before him.

Even on “Adoption Day,” the yearly program that the Michigan Supreme Court hosts each November to celebrate the joy of adoptions taking place across the state.

“Without doubt, it has been my favorite part of being on the Supreme Court,” said Markman, who officially leaves the bench this week because of age limits. “It’s a celebration like no other in the sense that it is giving children an opportunity to experience a loving home.”

This year, on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, the Adoption Day ceremony was held in the virtual realm due to the pandemic.

“While the program was a little different this year, the (Supreme) Court’s commitment to finding forever homes for children in foster care is a priority that will never change,” Markman said following the ceremony. “In person or online, the sentiment is exactly the same – the Court is forever grateful to individuals and families who step up and make a difference in the lives of children who want nothing more than a loving home.”

Joining Justice Markman for this year’s program were two of his Supreme Court colleagues, Elizabeth Clement and Megan Cavanagh. Also on hand for the occasion was former Chief Justice Maura Corrigan, a pivotal figure in the development of the Adoption Day program.

“Traditionally, it’s been an event where boxes of tissues need to be handy,” said Markman. “It can be very emotional, seeing adoptive parents making a lifelong commitment to provide a safe and loving home for children of all ages. It’s really been a heart-warming experience to be involved in a program of this magnitude.”


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