Maryland § 5-704.1

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 5-704.1, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5-704.1.

    (a)    An individual may notify the local department or the appropriate law enforcement agency if the individual has reason to believe that a parent, guardian, or caregiver of a child allows the child to reside with or be in the regular presence of an individual, other than the child’s parent or guardian, who:

        (1)    is registered under Title 11, Subtitle 7 of the Criminal Procedure Article based on the commission of an offense against a child; and

        (2)    based on additional information, poses a substantial risk of sexual abuse to the child.

    (b)    (1)    A report under subsection (a) of this section may be oral or in writing.

        (2)    If acting as a staff member of a hospital, public health agency, child care institution, juvenile detention center, school, or similar institution, an individual who notifies the appropriate authorities under subsection (a) of this section immediately shall notify and give all of the information required by this section to the head of the institution or the designee of the head of the institution.

    (c)    To the extent reasonably possible, an individual who makes a report under this section shall include in the report the following information:

        (1)    the name, age, and home address of the child;

        (2)    the name and home address of the child’s parent or other person who is responsible for the child’s care;

        (3)    the whereabouts of the child;

        (4)    the nature and extent of the substantial risk of sexual abuse of the child, including any evidence or information available to the reporter concerning possible previous instances of sexual abuse; and

        (5)    any other information that would help to determine:

            (i)    the cause of the substantial risk of sexual abuse; and

            (ii)    the identity of any individual responsible for the substantial risk of sexual abuse.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 5-704.1

What does Maryland Code § 5-704.1 cover?

Section 5-704.1 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 § 5-704.1?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 5-704.1" (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 § 5-704.1 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.