Maryland § 5-339
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 5-339, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-339.
(a) (1) Consent of a parent to an adoption under this Part III of this subtitle may include:
(i) a provision barring a petitioner from learning identifying information about the parent; and
(ii) a waiver of the right to notice of further proceedings under this Part III of this subtitle.
(2) Consent to adoption entered into before a judge on the record shall include a waiver of the revocation period.
(3) Consent of a party to an adoption under this Part III of this subtitle is not valid unless:
(i) the consent is given in a language that the party understands;
(ii) if given in a language other than English, the consent:
1. is given before a judge on the record; or
2. is accompanied by the affidavit of a translator stating that the translation of the document of consent is accurate;
(iii) the consent names the child;
(iv) the consent contains enough information to identify the prospective adoptive parent;
(v) the party has received written notice or on–the–record notice of:
1. the revocation provisions in subsections (a)(2) and (b)(1) of this section;
2. the search rights of adoptees and parents under § 5–359 of this subtitle and the search rights of adoptees, parents, and siblings under Subtitle 4B of this title; and
3. the right to file a disclosure veto under § 5–359 of this subtitle; and
(vi) the consent is accompanied by an affidavit of counsel appointed under § 5–307(a) of this subtitle, stating that a parent who is a minor or has a disability consents knowingly and voluntarily.
(b) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a parent may revoke consent to adoption under this Part III of this subtitle at any time within the later of:
(i) 30 days after the parent signs the consent; or
(ii) 30 days after the adoption petition is filed.
(2) Consent to adoption under subsection (a)(2) of this section is irrevocable.
(c) A local department may revoke consent to an adoption under this Part III of this subtitle at any time before a juvenile court enters an order of adoption under this Part III of this subtitle.
(d) A child may revoke consent or object to an adoption under this Part III of this subtitle at any time before a juvenile court enters an order of adoption under this Part III of this subtitle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 5-339
What does Maryland Code § 5-339 cover?
Section 5-339 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 § 5-339?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 5-339" (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 § 5-339 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.