§ 5-345
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/md/family-law/5-345·A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
§5–345.
(a)If, after termination of parental rights as to a child, there is an open guardianship case, a petition for adoption of the child may be filed only as provided in this Part IV of this subtitle.
(1)Any adult may petition a juvenile court for an adoption under this Part IV of this subtitle.
(2)If a petitioner under this section is married, the petitioner’s spouse shall join in the petition unless the spouse:
(i)is separated from the petitioner under a circumstance that gives the petitioner a ground for annulment or divorce; or
(ii)is not competent to join in the petition.
(1)A petitioner under this section shall attach to a petition:
(i)1. all written consents required under § 5-350 of this subtitle; or
2. if applicable:
A. proof of guardianship or relinquishment of parental rights granted by an administrative, executive, or judicial body of a state or other jurisdiction; and
B. certification that the guardianship or relinquishment was granted in compliance with the jurisdiction’s laws;
(ii)a copy of an agreement, if any, for postadoption contact; and
(iii)a notice of filing that:
1. states the date on which the petition was filed;
2. identifies each governmental unit or person whose consent was filed with the petition;
3. if applicable, states that a postadoption agreement was filed with the petition; and
4. includes no identifying information that would be in violation of an agreement or consent.
(2)In addition to a copy of an agreement for postadoption contact, a petitioner shall file the original agreement under seal.
(d)If the marital status of a petitioner changes before entry of an order, the petitioner shall amend the petition accordingly.