# Family Law (GFL)

## Title 5. Children

### Subtitle 2A. Authorization for a Minor to Marry

#### Section 5-2A-02

On the filing of a petition for  authorization to marry, a court shall:

(1) appoint a lawyer with family law experience to represent the petitioner;

(2) set an evidentiary hearing on the petition;

(3) provide the minor with the following:

  (i) information on the rights and responsibilities of:

    (1) a minor granted authorization to marry under this subtitle, including the right to divorce; and

    (2) parties to a marriage;

  (ii) referral information for legal aid agencies;

  (iii) information on State and national hotlines for child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking; and

  (iv) information related to impacts and outcomes of child marriage in the United States; and

(4) notify each living parent, guardian, or legal custodian whom the court is able to locate of their right to support or oppose the petition.

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