# Family Law (GFL)

## Title 5. Children

### Subtitle 3B. Independent Adoption

#### Section 5-3B-12

Except for a child being placed for adoption with a relative of the child, by blood or marriage within 4 degrees of affinity or consanguinity under the civil law rule, a parent or grandparent may place a child for adoption only if:

(1) a petition for adoption is filed in court; and

(2) the court, by order, sanctions the placement pending final action on the petition.

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