§ 13.5-204
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Est. & Trusts § 13.5-204 (2026)
Title 13.5. Maryland Uniform Adult Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act
Subtitle 2. Jurisdiction
§ 13.5-204LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A court of this State having jurisdiction under § 13.5–201 of this subtitle to appoint a guardian or issue a protective order may decline to exercise jurisdiction if the court determines at any time that a court of another state is a more appropriate forum.
(b)
(1)
If a court of this State declines jurisdiction over a guardianship proceeding or protective proceeding under subsection (a) of this section, the court shall either dismiss the proceeding or stay the proceeding.
(2)
A court under paragraph (1) of this subsection may impose any other condition the court considers just and proper, including the condition that a petition for the appointment of a guardian or protective order be promptly filed in another state.
(c)
In determining whether the court is an appropriate forum, a court shall consider all relevant factors, including:
(1)
An expressed preference of the respondent;
(2)
Whether abuse, neglect, or exploitation of the respondent has occurred or is likely to occur and which state could best protect the respondent from the abuse, neglect, or exploitation;
(3)
The length of time the respondent was physically located in or was a legal resident of this State or another state;
(4)
The distance of the respondent from the court in each state;
(5)
The financial circumstances of the estate of the respondent;
(6)
The nature and location of the evidence;
(7)
The ability of the court in each state to decide the issue expeditiously and the procedures necessary to present evidence;
(8)
The familiarity of the court of each state with the facts and issues in the proceeding; and
(9)
If an appointment were made, the ability of the court to monitor the conduct of the guardian or conservator.