# Family Law (GFL)

## Title 1. Definitions; General Provisions

### Subtitle 2. General Provisions

#### Section 1-202

(a) In an action in which custody, visitation rights, or the amount of support of a minor child is contested, the court may:

  (1)

    (i) appoint a lawyer who shall serve as a child advocate attorney to represent the minor child and who may not represent any party to the action; or

    (ii) appoint a lawyer who shall serve as a best interest attorney to represent the minor child and who may not represent any party to the action; and

  (2) impose counsel fees against one or more parties to the action.

(b) A lawyer appointed under this section shall exercise ordinary care and diligence in the representation of a minor child.

---

Md. Code Ann., Fam. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)