Maryland § 3-809
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 3-809, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3-809.
(a) On receipt of a complaint from a person or agency having knowledge of facts which may cause a child to be subject to the jurisdiction of the court under this subtitle, the local department shall file a petition under this subtitle if it concludes that the court has jurisdiction over the matter and that the filing of a petition is in the best interests of the child.
(b) Within 5 days after reaching a decision not to file a petition, the local department shall inform in writing the following persons of the decision and the reasons for the decision:
(1) A child over the age of 10 who would have been the subject of the petition, if appropriate;
(2) The parent, guardian, or custodian of the child who would have been the subject of the petition; and
(3) Each person or agency that requested that a petition be filed.
(c) Within 15 days after notice that a local department has decided not to file a petition, the person or agency that requested that a petition be filed may request review by the Secretary of Human Services.
(d) Within 15 days after a request for review is received, the Secretary of Human Services or the Secretary’s designee, in consultation with the director of the local department, shall review the report and may direct the local department to file a petition within 5 days.
(e) If the Secretary of Human Services or the Secretary’s designee refuses to direct the local department to file a petition, the person or agency that filed the complaint under subsection (a) of this section or caused it to be filed may file the petition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 3-809
What does Maryland Code § 3-809 cover?
Section 3-809 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 § 3-809?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 3-809" (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 § 3-809 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.