Maryland § 3-503
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 3-503, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3-503.
(a) (1) A person may not, without color of right:
(i) forcibly abduct, take, or carry away a child under the age of 12 years from:
1. the home or usual place of abode of the child; or
2. the custody and control of the child’s parent or legal guardian;
(ii) without the consent of the child’s parent or legal guardian, persuade or entice a child under the age of 12 years from:
1. the child’s home or usual place of abode; or
2. the custody and control of the child’s parent or legal guardian; or
(iii) with the intent of depriving the child’s parent or legal guardian, or any person lawfully possessing the child, of the custody, care, and control of the child, knowingly secrete or harbor a child under the age of 12 years.
(2) In addition to the prohibitions provided under paragraph (1) of this subsection, a person may not, by force or fraud, kidnap, steal, take, or carry away a child under the age of 16 years.
(b) (1) A person who violates subsection (a)(1) of this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 20 years.
(2) (i) Except as provided under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a person, other than a parent of the child, who violates subsection (a)(2) of this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 30 years.
(ii) 1. If a person convicted under subsection (a)(2) of this section is convicted in the same proceeding of rape or a first degree sexual offense under Subtitle 3 of this title, the person is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding life without the possibility of parole.
2. If the State intends to seek a sentence of imprisonment for life without the possibility of parole under subsubparagraph 1 of this subparagraph, the State shall notify the person in writing of the State’s intent at least 30 days before trial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 3-503
What does Maryland Code § 3-503 cover?
Section 3-503 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 3-503?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 3-503" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 3-503 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.