Maryland § 5-3B-32
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 5-3B-32, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-3B-32.
(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 family; or
(2) an agreement for custody in contemplation of adoption.
(b) This section does not prohibit payment, by an interested person, of:
(1) a reasonable and customary charge or fee for adoption counseling, hospital, legal, or medical services;
(2) reasonable expenses for transportation for medical care associated with the pregnancy or birth of the child;
(3) reasonable expenses for food, clothing, and shelter for a birth mother if, on written advice of a physician, the birth mother is unable to work or otherwise support herself because of medical reasons associated with the pregnancy or birth of the child; or
(4) reasonable expenses associated with any required court appearance relating to the adoption, including transportation, food, and lodging expenses.
(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 § 5-3B-32
What does Maryland Code § 5-3B-32 cover?
Section 5-3B-32 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 § 5-3B-32?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 5-3B-32" (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 § 5-3B-32 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.