Maryland § 5-362
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 5-362, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-362.
(a) Except as otherwise provided by law, a person may not charge or receive, from or for a parent or prospective adoptive parent, any compensation for a service in connection with:
(1) placement of an individual to live with a preadoptive parent, as defined in § 3-823(i)(1) of the Courts Article; or
(2) an agreement for custody in contemplation of adoption.
(b) (1) In this subsection, “Administration” means the Social Services Administration of the Department.
(2) This section does not:
(i) prohibit payment, by an interested person, of a customary and reasonable charge or fee for hospital, legal, or medical services; or
(ii) prevent the Administration, or a person that the Administration licenses or supervises, from receiving and accepting reasonable reimbursement for costs of an adoptive service in connection with adoption, if:
1. the reimbursement is in accordance with standards set by regulation of the Administration; and
2. the ability to provide this reimbursement does not affect:
A. the acceptability of any individual for adoptive services; or
B. the choice of the most suitable prospective adoptive parent.
(c) Each State’s Attorney shall enforce this section.
(d) A person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $100 or imprisonment not exceeding 3 months or both, for each offense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 5-362
What does Maryland Code § 5-362 cover?
Section 5-362 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 § 5-362?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 5-362" (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 § 5-362 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.