Maryland § 5-320
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 5-320, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-320.
(a) A juvenile court may grant guardianship of a child only if:
(1) (i) the child does not object;
(ii) the local department:
1. filed the petition; or
2. did not object to another party filing the petition; and
(iii) 1. each of the child’s living parents consents:
A. in writing;
B. knowingly and voluntarily, on the record before the juvenile court; or
C. by failure to file a timely notice of objection after being served with a show–cause order in accordance with this subtitle;
2. an administrative, executive, or judicial body of a state or other jurisdiction has granted a governmental unit or person other than a parent the power to consent to adoption, and the unit or person consents; or
3. parental rights have been terminated in compliance with the laws of a state or other jurisdiction, as described in § 5–305 of this subtitle; or
(2) in accordance with § 5–323 of this subtitle, the juvenile court finds termination of parental rights to be in the child’s best interests without consent otherwise required under this section or over the child’s objection.
(b) A governmental unit or person:
(1) may condition consent or acquiescence on adoption into a specific family that a local department approves for the placement; but
(2) may not condition consent or acquiescence on any factor other than placement into a specific family.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 5-320
What does Maryland Code § 5-320 cover?
Section 5-320 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 § 5-320?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 5-320" (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 § 5-320 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.