Adoption is a legal process by which a person or couple becomes the legal parent(s) of a child who is not biologically related to them. In Maryland, adoption is regulated by state law, and there are certain requirements that must be met in order for an adoption to be approved. Here is an overview of Maryland adoption laws:

Who Can Adopt in Maryland?

In Maryland, any adult who is at least 21 years old can adopt a child. Married couples may adopt jointly, and unmarried couples may adopt jointly if they have lived together for at least two years. Same-sex couples are also allowed to adopt in Maryland.

What Types of Adoptions are Available?

There are several types of adoptions available in Maryland:

• Agency adoptions: These are adoptions that are arranged through a licensed adoption agency.
• Independent adoptions: These are adoptions that are arranged directly between the birth parents and the adoptive parents.
• Stepparent adoptions: These are adoptions in which a stepparent becomes the legal parent of a child.

What are the Requirements for Adoption?

In order to adopt in Maryland, prospective parents must meet certain requirements, including:

• Passing a criminal background check and child abuse registry check.
• Completing a home study, which includes a home visit and an evaluation of the prospective parent(s) and their ability to care for a child.
• Providing proof of financial stability and ability to support a child.
• Demonstrating a commitment to providing a safe and stable home environment for the child.

What is the Adoption Process in Maryland?

The adoption process in Maryland varies depending on the type of adoption. Generally, the process involves:

• Finding a child to adopt through an adoption agency, an attorney, or by connecting with birth parents directly.
• Completing a home study and any other necessary paperwork or evaluations.
• Attending court hearings to finalize the adoption and obtain a new birth certificate for the child.

What are the Legal Rights of Birth Parents in Maryland Adoptions?

In Maryland, birth parents have the right to:

• Consent to the adoption or withdraw consent within 30 days of signing.
• Receive counseling and legal advice before signing a consent form.
• Have legal representation throughout the adoption process.

In some cases, birth parents may also have the right to ongoing contact with the child through an open adoption agreement.

Adoption can be a complex and emotional process, but it can also be a rewarding way to build a family. If you are considering adoption in Maryland, it is important to work with an experienced adoption attorney or agency who can guide you through the process and ensure that your rights and the rights of the child are protected.

Work with a Maryland Attorney

Here at Blackford & Flohr, we have extensive experience in family, and specifically adoption, law. We are based in Severna Park, MD, and have helped families throughout Maryland with the adoption process. Call us today to discuss your MD adoption case: (410) 647-6677.

We can help with the following situations:

• Parent placements
  • Adoption matching
  • Domestic adoptions
  • Interstate adoptions
  • International adoptions
  • Stepparent adoptions
  • Relative adoptions
• Foster care placements
• LGBTQ adoption options
• Contested adoptions
• Carries and surrogates
• Embryo and egg donation
• Trust and estate planning for new families
• Expert witness services

If you would like to learn more about potential adoption options and the basics of adoption law, feel free to check out these resources:

Adopt.org

Building Your Family

Child Welfare Gateway

If you need help with your Maryland adoption case today, please email us or call us at (410) 647-6677.  A Maryland adoption attorney with Blackford & Flohr will provide a free, no-obligation consultation.