Maryland Adoption Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed December 22, 2022
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The opportunity to expand your family by adopting a child can be a joyous experience. But with the legal requirements surrounding adoption, it can be a complex and potentially confusing one as well. It can seem impossible for the average Marylander to make heads or tails of the state laws that regulate who can be adopted, by whom, and how.
Read on for a brief summary of Maryland adoption laws.
State Laws
Most regulations regarding adoption exist at the state level and will dictate who is allowed to adopt and the special requirements for adoptive parents. Even the simplest adoptions can be a momentous and complex process; for help in understanding the law and what your legal requirements might be, you may want to contact an attorney.
Adoption Laws in Maryland
States are free to set up their own adoption laws, which can differ from other states. Adoption laws in Maryland are highlighted in the chart below.
Code Section |
§5-301, et seq., of the Maryland Family Law Code |
|---|---|
Who May Be Adopted |
Any person |
Age that Child's Consent Needed |
10 years and older |
Who May Adopt |
Any adult, even though single or unmarried. The court cannot deny a petition just because the petitioner is single. Married persons must act jointly unless legally separated or if one spouse is the natural parent of the adoptee or the spouse is incompetent. |
Home Residency Required Prior to Finalization of Adoption? |
Not required |
State Agency/Court |
Social Services Administration/Circuit or Equity |
Statute of Limitations to Challenge |
1 year |
Maryland, like most states, allows any person to be adopted, and any adult, single or married, to adopt. After the age of 10, the child's consent is required if the child's natural parents no longer have parental rights. Maryland, like all states, also recognizes same-sex couples as co-parents and allows same-sex couples to adopt. Many states have created adoption courts designed to look out for the best interests of a child during adoption proceedings.
Related Resources for Adoption Laws
State standards and regulations concerning adoption can be complex and are subject to change. You can visit FindLaw's Adoption Laws section to review some of these laws and get a more general overview in our Adoption section.
Get Legal Help With an Adoption
Adoption can be a complicated process. There are many state and federal laws that govern adoption. An attorney will help you navigate these laws. They will help review your case, provide helpful legal advice, and advocate for you and your future child.
If you would like legal assistance with an adoption case, you can find an experienced Maryland adoption attorney in your area to schedule a consultation.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.
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