Maryland § 3-818

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 3-818, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 3-818.

    (a)    Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, within 1 year after a child’s birth, there is a presumption that a child is not receiving proper care and attention from the parent for purposes of § 3–801(f)(2) of this subtitle if:

        (1)    (i)    The child was born exposed to cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or a derivative of cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine as evidenced by any appropriate tests of the parent or child; or

            (ii)    Upon admission to a hospital for delivery of the child, the parent tested positive for cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or a derivative of cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine as evidenced by any appropriate toxicology test; and

        (2)    Substance use disorder treatment is made available to the parent and the parent refuses the recommended level of substance use disorder treatment, or does not successfully complete the recommended level of substance use disorder treatment.

    (b)    (1)    There is a presumption that a child is receiving proper care and attention from the parent for purposes of § 3–801(f)(2) of this subtitle if:

            (i)    The parent is receiving treatment in a residential substance use disorder treatment program with beds or services for patients’ children; and

            (ii)    The child is in the presence of the child’s parent for the duration of the child’s parent’s treatment.

        (2)    This subsection may not be construed to prohibit another parent or a guardian, a custodian, a relative, or another person able to provide supervision and care from providing supervision and care for a child for the duration of the child’s parent’s treatment if the other parent, guardian, custodian, relative, or other person agrees to provide supervision and care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 3-818

What does Maryland Code § 3-818 cover?

Section 3-818 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 § 3-818?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 3-818" (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 § 3-818 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.