# Family Law (GFL)

## Title 5. Children

### Subtitle 3B. Independent Adoption

#### Section 5-3B-01

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) "Assisted reproduction" has the meaning stated in Sec. 5-1001 of this title.

(c) "Identifying information" means information that reveals the identity or location of an individual.

(d) "Mother" has the meaning stated in Sec. 5-1001 of this title.

(e)

  (1) "Parent" means an individual who, at any time before a court enters an order for adoption under this subtitle:

    (i) meets a criterion in Sec. 5-3B-05(a) of this subtitle;

    (ii) is the mother; or

    (iii) is a parent or is presumed to be a parent under Title 1, Subtitle 2 of the Estates and Trusts Article.

  (2) "Parent" does not include an individual whom a court has adjudicated not to be a father or mother.

(f) "Prospective adoptee" means an individual who is the subject of a petition for adoption under this subtitle.

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