# COMAR Title 07 — Department of Human Services

## Subtitle 02 — Social Services Administration

### Chapter 12 — Adoption

#### Regulation .01 Purpose.

*COMAR 07.02.12.01*

Adoption services are provided to:

A. Effect a permanent plan, through adoption, at the earliest possible time, for a child in out-of-home placement who cannot or should not be reunited with the child’s birth parent;

B. Protect a child from unnecessary separation from the birth parent;

C. Provide, in the shortest time possible, an adoptive family who will ensure a child’s safety and well-being;

D. Permit adoption of a child only by individuals who are qualified for the responsibility; and

E. Protect, as appropriate, the confidentiality of the adoption process and share nonidentifying medical information to permit an adopted child and adoptive family to grow and develop undisturbed.