Maryland § 5-1402
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 5-1402, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-1402.
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, after a trial, a court may terminate the parental rights of a respondent under this subtitle if the court:
(1) determines that the respondent has been served in accordance with the Maryland Rules;
(2) (i) finds that the respondent has been convicted of an act of nonconsensual sexual conduct against the other parent that resulted in the conception of the child at issue in an action under this subtitle; or
(ii) finds by clear and convincing evidence that the respondent committed an act of nonconsensual sexual conduct against the other parent that resulted in the conception of the child at issue in an action under this subtitle; and
(3) finds by clear and convincing evidence that it is in the best interest of the child to terminate the parental rights of the respondent.
(b) The court may not terminate parental rights under subsection (a) of this section if the parents were married at the time of the conception of the child at issue unless:
(1) the respondent has been convicted of an act of nonconsensual sexual conduct against the other parent that resulted in the conception of the child; or
(2) the parents were separated in accordance with a protective order during the time of the conception of the child and have remained separate and apart since the time of conception.
(c) A termination of parental rights under this section terminates completely:
(1) a parent’s right to custody of, guardianship of, access to, visitation with, and inheritance from the child; and
(2) a parent’s responsibility to support the child, including the responsibility to pay child support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 5-1402
What does Maryland Code § 5-1402 cover?
Section 5-1402 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 § 5-1402?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 5-1402" (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 § 5-1402 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.