IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF MARYLAND

R U L E S O R D E R

This Court's Standing Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure having submitted its One Hundred Fifty-Seventh Report to the Court recommending thereby certain proposed Rules changes, as set forth in that Report published in the Maryland Register,

Vol. 34, Issue 2, pages 74-135 (January 19, 2007); and

This Court by Rules Order filed May 8, 2007, having adopted, with certain amendments made on the Court's own motion, the Rules changes proposed in the One Hundred Fifty-Seventh Report, except the proposed amendments to Rules 1-101, 9-101, 9-102, 9-103, 9-
104, 9-105, 9-106, 9-107, 9-108, 9-109, 9-110, 9-111, 9-112, and 9-113 and proposed new Forms 9-102.1, 9-102.2, 9-102.3, 9-102.4, 9-102.5, 9-102.6, 9-102.7, 9-102.8, 9-102.9, and 9-102.10, consideration of which was deferred pending further study; and

This Court having considered at an open meeting, notice of which was posted as prescribed by law, the deferred proposed rules changes, together with the comments received, and making certain amendments to the proposed rules changes on its own motion, it is this 4th day of June, 2007,

ORDERED, by the Court of Appeals of Maryland, that amendments to Rules 1-101, 9-101, 9-102, 9-103, 9-104, 9-105, 9-
106, 9-107, 9-108, 9-109, 9-110, 9-111, 9-112, and 9-113 and new Forms 9-102.1, 9-102.2, 9-102.3, 9-102.4, 9-102.5, 9-102.6, 9-
102.7, 9-102.8, 9-102.9, and 9-102.10 be, and they are hereby, adopted in the form attached to this Order; and it is further

ORDERED that the rules changes hereby adopted by this Court shall govern the courts of this State and all parties and their attorneys in all actions and proceedings, and shall take effect and apply to all actions commenced on or after the 1st day of July, 2007, and insofar as practicable, to all actions then pending; and it is further

ORDERED that a copy of this Order be published in the next issue of the Maryland Register.

/s/ Robert M. Bell

___________________________________

Robert M. Bell

/s/ Irma S. Raker

___________________________________

Irma S. Raker

/s/ Dale R. Cathell

___________________________________

Dale R. Cathell

/s/ Glenn T. Harrell, Jr.

___________________________________

Glenn T. Harrell, Jr.

/s/ Lynne A. Battaglia

___________________________________

Lynne A. Battaglia

/s/ Clayton Greene, Jr.

___________________________________

Clayton Greene, Jr.

Filed: June 4, 2007

/s/ Alexander L. Cummings

______________________________

Clerk

Court of Appeals of Maryland

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Rule 9-101. APPLICABILITY; DEFINITIONS

(a) Applicability

(b) Definitions

(1) Independent Adoption

(2) Private Agency Adoption

(3) Private Agency Guardianship

(4) Public Agency Adoption after TPR

(5) Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR

(6) Public Agency Guardianship

(7) TPR

Rule 9-102. CONSENTS; REVOCATION OF CONSENT

(a) Consents Generally Required

(b) Form of Consents, Affidavits of Attorneys, and

Disclosure Vetoes

(1) Consent of Parent

(2) Consent of Child to Adoption

(3) Attorney Affidavit

(4) Disclosure Vetoes

(c) Revocation of Consent

(1) Time for Revocation of Consent

(A) By Parent

(B) By Adoptee

(C) By Public or Private Agency or Guardian

(2) Procedure for Revocation of Consent

(A) By Parent – Delivery to Clerk

(B) By Agency, Guardian, or Adoptee

(C) Notice

(D) Court Hearing Upon Revocation of Consent

Rule 9-103. PETITION

(a) Titling of Case

(b) Petition for Adoption

(1) Contents

(2) Exhibits

(c) Petition for Guardianship

(d) If Facts Unknown or Documents Unavailable

(e) Disclosure of Facts Known to Child Placement Agency

Rule 9-104. NOTICE OF FILING OF PETITION; STATUS CONFERENCE

(a) Notice of Filing of Petition

(b) Status Conference

Rule 9-105. SHOW CAUSE ORDER; DISABILITY OF A PARTY; OTHER NOTICE

(a) Requirement for Show Cause Order

(b) Appointment of Attorney for Disabled Party

(c) Service of Show Cause Order

(1) Method of Service

(2) Time for Service

(3) Notice of Objection

(d) Notice of Change of Name

(e) Form of Show Cause Order

(f) Form of Notice of Objection

(g) Form of Notice for Service by Publication and Posting

Rule 9-106. APPOINTMENT OF ATTORNEY - ATTORNEY AFFIDAVIT - INVESTIGATION

(a) Appointment of Attorney

(b) Payment of Attorney's Fees

(c) Affidavit of Attorney

(1) With a Parental Consent

(2) With a Consent of a Prospective Adoptee

(d) Investigation by Court

(1) Optional

(2) Mandatory

(3) Recommendation of Investigator

(4) In Writing

Rule 9-107. OBJECTION

(a) In General

(b) Time for Filing Objection

(1) In General

(2) Service Outside of the State

(3) Service Outside of the United States

(4) Service by Publication in a Newspaper and on Website

(c) Service

(d) Response

(e) Hearing

(f) Access to Records

Rule 9-108. TEMPORARY CUSTODY

Rule 9-109. HEARING ON MERITS

(a) Requirement

(1) Generally

(2) Guardianship

(b) Adoption

(1) Persons Present at Hearing

(2) Considerations

(3) Findings by the Court

Rule 9-110. ACCOUNTING REPORT

(a) Duty to File

(b) Contents

Rule 9-111. JUDGMENT OF ADOPTION OR GUARDIANSHIP

(a) Time

(b) Information from Other Court

(c) Supplemental Report

(d) Change of Name

(e) Spouse of Parent

Rule 9-112. COURT RECORDS

(a) Dockets

(b) Sealing of Records

Rule 9-113. MEDICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH HISTORY

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-101 by adding new section (a), "Applicability,"

and by revising the applicable definitions as follows:

Rule 9-101. APPLICABILITY; DEFINITIONS

(a) Applicability

The Rules in this Chapter apply to proceedings under Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitles 3 (Guardianship to and Adoption through Local Department), 3A (Private Agency Guardianship and Adoption), and 3B (Independent Adoption).

Committee note: The Rules in this Chapter do not apply to the guardianship of persons and property of minors and disabled persons governed by Code, Estates and Trusts Article, §13-101 et seq.

(b) Definitions

The terms used in this Chapter that are defined in Code, Family Law Article, Titles 1 and 5 shall have the meanings stated in those Titles. In addition, in this Chapter, the following definitions apply except as expressly otherwise provided or as necessary implication requires.

(1) Independent Adoption

"Independent Adoption" means an adoption under Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3B.

(2) Private Agency Adoption

"Private Agency Adoption" means an adoption under Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3A, Part III.

(3) Private Agency Guardianship

"Private Agency Guardianship" means a guardianship under Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3A, Part II.

(4) Public Agency Adoption after TPR

"Public Agency Adoption after TPR" means an adoption under Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3, Part IV, after termination of parental rights.

(5) Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR

"Public Agency Adoption without Prior TRP" means an adoption under Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3, Part III, without prior termination of parental rights.

(6) Public Agency Guardianship

"Public Agency Guardianship" means a guardianship under Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3, Part II.

(7) TPR

"TPR" means termination of parental rights.

Source: This Rule is in part derived from former Rule D71 and is in part new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-102 by deleting language from section (a), by

updating the cross reference after section (a), by adding a new

section (b) pertaining to certain forms, by relettering the Rule,

by replacing the language in subsection (c)(1) with references to

certain Code provisions, by conforming the provisions pertaining

to revocation of a consent to statutory changes, by adding a new

subsection (c)(2)(C) pertaining to notice, by deleting and adding

language to subsection (c)(2)(D) pertaining to scheduling an

immediate hearing upon revocation of a consent, and by deleting

all forms from the Rule, as follows:

Rule 9-102. CONSENTS;

REVOCATION OF CONSENT

(a) Consents Generally Required

Except when otherwise permitted, a judgment of adoption or guardianship may not be entered without the consents prescribed by Code, Family Law Article .

Cross reference: For provisions governing the authority to grant guardianships or adoptions and the validity of consents, see Code, Family Law Article, §§5-320 and 5-321 as to a Public Agency Guardianship; 5-338 and 5-339 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-350 and 5-351 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; 5-3A-18 and 5-3A-19 as to a Private Agency Guardianship; 5-3A-35 as to a Private Agency Adoption; and 5-3B-20 and 5-3B-21 as to an Independent Adoption.

(b) Form of Consents, Affidavits of Attorneys, and Disclosure Vetoes

(1) Consent of Parent

If signed on or after July 1, 2007, the consent of a parent to a guardianship or to an adoption shall be substantially in the applicable form set forth at the end of this Title as Form 9-102.1 (Consent of Parent to a Public Agency Guardianship), Form 9-102.2 (Consent of Parent to a Private Agency Guardianship), Form 9-102.3 (Consent of Parent to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR), Form 9-102.4 (Consent of Parent to an Independent Adoption with Termination of Parental Rights), or Form 9-102.5 (Consent of Parent to an Independent Adoption without Termination of Parental Rights).

(2) Consent of Child to Adoption

If signed on or after July 1, 2007, the consent of a child to an adoption shall be substantially in the applicable form set forth at the end of this Title as Form 9-102.6 (Consent of Child to a Public Agency Adoption or Private Agency Adoption) or Form 9-102.7 (Consent of Child to an Independent Adoption).

(3) Attorney Affidavit

When required and if signed on or after July 1, 2007, the affidavit by an attorney as to the validity of the consent of a parent to a guardianship or adoption or a child to an adoption shall be substantially in the applicable form set forth at the end of this Title as Form 9-102.8 (Attorney Affidavit as to Consent of a Parent to a Public Agency Guardianship or Private Agency Guardianship), Form 9-102.9 (Attorney Affidavit as to Consent of a Parent to Adoption), or Form 9-102.10 (Attorney Affidavit as to Consent of a Child to Adoption).

Cross reference: See Rule 9-106 (c).

(4) Disclosure Vetoes

The disclosure vetoes that are required to be attached to the consent forms may be found on the website of the Maryland Department of Human Resources.

(c) Revocation of Consent

(1) Time for Revocation of Consent

(A) By Parent

The time for revocation of consent by a parent is as provided in Code, Family Law Article, §5-321 (Public Agency Guardianship), §5-339 (Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR), §5-3A-19 (Private Agency Guardianship), and §5-3B-21 (Independent Adoption).

(B) By Adoptee

The time for revocation of consent by an adoptee is as provided in Code, Family Law Article, §5-339 (Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR), §5-351 (Public Agency Adoption after TPR), §5-3A-35 (Private Agency Adoption), and §5-3B-21 (Independent Adoption).

(C) By Public or Private Agency or Guardian

The time for revocation of consent by a public or private agency or guardian is as provided in Code, Family Law Article, §5-339 (Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR), §5-
351 (Public Agency Adoption after TPR), and §5-3A-35 (Private Agency Adoption).

(2) Procedure for Revocation of Consent

(A) By Parent - Delivery to Clerk

A parent may revoke a consent to an adoption or guardianship only by a signed writing actually delivered by mail or in person to the clerk of the circuit court designated in the consent to receive the revocation. If the revocation is delivered to an agent of a public or private agency, the agent shall deliver the revocation promptly to the court.

(B) By Agency, Guardian, or Adoptee

An agency, guardian, or adoptee may revoke consent to an adoption (i) in person or through counsel on the record at a hearing or (ii) in a writing signed by the executive head of the agency, the guardian, or the adoptee and filed with the court. If the revocation is delivered to an agent of a public or private agency, the agent shall deliver the revocation promptly to the court.

Cross reference: Rule 9-112.

(C) Notice

The court shall send to all parties, including the

person who revoked the consent, a copy of the revocation and notice of a hearing scheduled pursuant to subsection (c)(2)(D) of this Rule.

(D) Court Hearing Upon Revocation of Consent

If a consent is revoked pursuant to this Rule, the court shall schedule an immediate hearing to determine the status of the petition and, if necessary, temporary custody of the child.

_______________________ __________________________

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________________________________________________________________

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Source: This Rule is derived in part from former Rule D73 and is in part new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-103 by changing the titling of a case in

section (a); by adding the word "effectively" to subsection

(b)(1)(K); by updating a statutory reference in subsection

(b)(1)(P); by modifying subsection (b)(2)(A)(vi) to delete

language pertaining to a "pre-placement report" and to add

language pertaining to an "adoption home study," "criminal

background reports," and "child abuse clearances;" by adding

language pertaining to "affidavits of translators or attorneys"

and an expanded cross reference to subsection (b)(2)(A)(viii); by

adding a new subsection (b)(2)(A)(ix) pertaining to proof of

guardianship or relinquishment of parental rights; by adding a

cross reference after subsection (b)(2)(A)(ix); by adding a new

cross reference after subsection (b)(2)(A)(x); by adding language

to subsection (b)(2)(A)(xi) pertaining to redraction of language

in adoption agreements; by adding a cross reference after

subsection (b)(2)(A)(xi); by adding the phrase "if applicable"

to subsection (b)(2)(A)(xiii); by adding subsection (b)(2)(A)

(xiv) pertaining to a notice of filing; by adding the phrase

"if applicable" to subsection (b)(2)(B)(i); by adding a cross

reference after subsection (b)(2)(B)(i); by updating the cross

reference after subsection (b)(2)(B)(iii), by deleting language

in subsection (b)(2)(B)(iv) and adding references to certain Code

sections; by adding a new subsection (b)(2)(B)(v) pertaining to

an affidavit of counsel; by updating the cross reference after

subsection (b)(2)(B)(v); by updating the cross reference after

section (c); by deleting section (e); and by relettering certain

sections and subsections; as follows:

Rule 9-103. PETITION

(a) Titling of Case

A proceeding shall be titled "In re Adoption/Guardianship

of _________________________________________ (first name and

first initial of last name of prospective adoptee or ward)."

(b) Petition for Adoption

(1) Contents

A petition for adoption shall be signed and verified by each petitioner and shall contain the following information:

(A) The name, address, age, business or employment, and employer of each petitioner;

(B) The name, sex, and date and place of birth of the person to be adopted;

(C) The name, address, and age of each parent of the person to be adopted;

(D) Any relationship of the person to be adopted to each petitioner;

(E) The name, address, and age of each child of each petitioner;

(F) A statement of how the person to be adopted was located (including names and addresses of all intermediaries or surrogates), attaching a copy of all advertisements used to locate the person, and a copy of any surrogacy contract;

Committee note: If the text of an advertisement was used verbatim more than once, the requirement that a copy of all advertisements be attached to the petition may be satisfied by attaching a single copy of the advertisement, together with a list of the publications in which the advertisement appeared and the dates on which it appeared.

(G) If the person to be adopted is a minor, the names and addresses of all persons who have had legal or physical care, custody, or control of the minor since the minor's birth and the period of time during which each of those persons has had care, custody, or control, but it is not necessary to identify the names and addresses of foster parents, other than a petitioner, who have taken care of the minor only while the minor has been committed to the custody of a child placement agency;

(H) If the person to be adopted is a minor who has been transported from another state to this State for purposes of placement for adoption, a statement of whether there has been compliance with the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC);

(I) If applicable, the reason why the spouse of the petitioner is not joining in the petition;

(J) If there is a guardian with the right to consent to adoption for the person to be adopted, the name and address of the guardian and a reference to the proceeding in which the guardian was appointed;

(K) Facts known to each petitioner that may indicate that a party has a disability that makes the party incapable of consenting or participating effectively in the proceedings, or, if no such facts are known to the petitioner, a statement to that effect;

(L) Facts known to each petitioner that may entitle the person to be adopted or a parent of that person to the appointment of an attorney by the court;

(M) If a petitioner desires to change the name of the person to be adopted, the name that is desired;

(N) As to each petitioner, a statement whether the petitioner has ever been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation and, if so, the offense and the date and place of the conviction;

(O) That the petitioner is not aware that any required consent has been revoked; and

(P) If placement pending final action on the petition is sought in accordance with Code, Family Law Article, §5-3B-12, a request that the court approve the proposed placement.

(2) Exhibits

(A) The following documents shall accompany the petition as exhibits:

(i) A certified copy of the birth certificate or proof of live birth of the person to be adopted;

(ii) A certified copy of the marriage certificate of each married petitioner;

(iii) A certified copy of all judgments of divorce of each petitioner;

(iv) A certified copy of any death certificate of a person whose consent would be required if that person were living;

(v) A certified copy of all orders concerning temporary custody or guardianship of the person to be adopted;

(vi) A copy of any existing adoption home study by a licensed child placement agency concerning a petitioner, criminal background reports, or child abuse clearances;

(vii) A document evidencing the annual income of each petitioner;

(viii) The original of all consents to the adoption, any required affidavits of translators or attorneys, and, if available, a copy of any written statement by the consenting person indicating a desire to revoke the consent, whether or not that statement constitutes a valid revocation;

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-313, 5-320, and 5-321 as to a Public Agency Guardianship; 5-331, 5-
338, and 5-339 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-345, 5-350, and 5-351 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; 5-3A-13, 5-3A-18, and 5-3A-19 as to a Private Agency Guardianship; 5-3A-35 as to a Private Agency Adoption; and 5-3B-
20 and 5-3B-21 as to an Independent Adoption.

(ix) If applicable, proof of guardianship or relinquishment of parental rights granted by an administrative, executive, or judicial body of a state or other jurisdiction; a certification that the guardianship or relinquishment was granted in compliance with the jurisdiction's laws; and any appropriate translation of documents required to allow the child to enter the United States;

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-305, 5-313, and 5-320 as to a Public Agency Guardianship; 5-305, 5-331, and 5-338 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-305 and 5-345 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; 5-3A-05, 5-3A-13, and 5-3A-18 as to a Private Agency Guardianship; 5-3A-05 as to a Private Agency Adoption; and 5-3B-04 and 5-3B-20 as to an Independent Adoption.

(x) If a parent of the person to be adopted cannot be identified or located, an affidavit of each petitioner and the other parent describing the attempts to identify and locate the unknown or missing parent;

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-331 and 5-334 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR and 5-3B-15 as to an Independent Adoption.

(xi) A copy of any agreement between a parent of the person to be adopted and a petitioner relating to the proposed adoption with any required redaction;

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-308 and 5-331 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-308 and 5-345 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; 5-3A-08 as to a Private Agency Adoption; and 5-3B-07 as to an Independent Adoption.

(xii) If the adoption is subject to the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children, the appropriate ICPC approval forms;

Cross reference: Code, Family Law Article, §5-601.

(xiii) A brief statement of the health of each petitioner signed by a physician or other health care provider if applicable; and

(xiv) If required, a notice of filing as prescribed by Code, Family Law Article:

(1) §5-313 in a Public Agency Guardianship;

(2) §5-331 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; or

(3) §5-345 in a Public Agency Adoption after TPR.

(B) The following documents shall be filed before a judgment of adoption is entered:

(i) Any post-placement report relating to the adoption, if applicable;

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-337 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-349 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; 5-3A-31 and 5-3A-34 as to a Private Agency Adoption; and 5-3B-16 as to an Independent Adoption.

(ii) A brief statement of the health of the child by a physician or other health care provider;

(iii) If required by law, an accounting of all payments and disbursements of any money or item of value made by or on behalf of each petitioner in connection with the adoption;

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §5-3B-
24 as to an Independent Adoption.

(iv) An affidavit of counsel for a parent, if required by Code, Family Law Article:

(1) §§5-307 and 5-321 in a Public Agency Guardianship;

(2) §§5-307 and 5-339 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR;

(3) §§5-3A-07 and 5-3A-19 in a Private Agency Guardianship; or

(4) §§5-3B-06 and 5-3B-21 in an Independent Adoption.

(v) An affidavit of counsel for a child, if the child is represented;

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-307 and 5-338 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-307 and 5-350 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; 5-3A-07 and 5-3A-35 as to a Private Agency Adoption; and 5-3B-06 and 5-3B-20 as to an Independent Adoption.

(vi) If the adoption is subject to the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children, the required post-placement form;

(vii) A proposed judgment of adoption; and

(viii) A Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Certificate of Adoption Form.

Cross reference: Code, Health-General Article, §4-211 (f).

(c) Petition for Guardianship

A petition for guardianship shall state all facts required by subsection (b)(1) of this Rule, to the extent that the requirements are applicable and known to the petitioner. It shall be accompanied by all documents required to be filed as exhibits by subsection (b)(2) of this Rule, to the extent the documents are applicable. The petition shall also state the license number of the child placement agency.

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-313 as to a Public Agency Guardianship and 5-3A-13 as to a Private Agency Guardianship.

(d) If Facts Unknown or Documents Unavailable

If a fact required by subsection (b)(1) or section (c) of this Rule is unknown to a petitioner or if a document required by subsection (b)(2) or section (c) is unavailable, the petitioner shall so state and give the reason in the petition or in a subsequent affidavit. If a document required to be submitted with the petition becomes available after the petition is filed, the petitioner shall file it as soon as it becomes available.

(e) Disclosure of Facts Known to Child Placement Agency

If any fact required by subsection (b)(1) of this Rule to be stated is known to a child placement agency and the agency declines to disclose it to a petitioner, the agency shall disclose the fact to the court in writing at the time the petition is filed.

Source: This Rule is derived in part from former Rule D72, in part from former Rule D80, and is in part new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-104 by deleting the text of the existing Rule,

by adding a new section (a) referring to certain Code sections,

and by adding a new section (b) pertaining to a status

conference, as follows:

Rule 9-104. NOTICE OF FILING OF PETITION;

STATUS CONFERENCE

(a) Notice of Filing of Petition

Notice of the filing of a petition for guardianship or adoption shall be given as required by Code, Family Law Article:

(1) §5-315 in a Public Agency Guardianship;

(2) §5-333 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR;

(3) §5-346 in a Public Agency Adoption after TPR;

(4) §5-3A-14 in a Private Agency Guardianship;

(5) §5-3A-30 in a Private Agency Adoption; and

(6) §5-3B-14 in an Independent Adoption.

(b) Status Conference

In a public agency guardianship or adoption, at the time

the notice of filing is sent, the court shall schedule a status

conference no later than 60 days after the filing of the

petition.

Source: This Rule is new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-105 by deleting language from and adding

language to section (a) referring to certain Code provisions; by

deleting existing subsection (a)(2); by deleting existing section

(b) and adding a new section (b) pertaining to the appointment of

an attorney for a disabled party; by adding a cross reference

after section (b); by deleting existing section (c); by

relettering certain sections; by modifying the service provisions

in relettered section (c) to refer to certain Code provisions; by

adding to relettered subsection (c)(3) language that includes a

reference to attaching a copy of the petition in certain

proceedings; by deleting existing section (f); by revising the

form of the show cause order to clarify it and conform it to

statutory changes; by making stylistic changes to the notice of

objection/request for appointment of attorney form and conforming

it to statutory changes; by adding a new section (g) referring to

certain Code provisions for the form of notice for service by

publication and posting, and by deleting a certain Committee

note, as follows:

Rule 9-105. SHOW CAUSE ORDER; DISABILITY OF A PARTY; OTHER NOTICE

(a) Requirement for Show Cause Order

Promptly upon the filing of a petition for adoption or guardianship, the court shall issue a show cause order in substantially the form set forth in section (e) of this Rule when required by Code, Family Law Article:

(1) §5-316 in a Public Agency Guardianship;

(2) §5-334 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR;

(3) §5-3A-15 in a Private Agency Guardianship; or

(4) §5-3B-15 in an Independent Adoption.

If the petition seeks adoption of a minor, the show cause order shall not divulge the name of the petitioner. If the petition seeks appointment of a guardian, the show cause order shall state the name of the child placement agency seeking guardianship.

(b) Appointment of Attorney for Disabled Party

(1) If the parties agree that a party who is not represented has a disability that makes the party incapable of consenting or participating effectively in the proceeding, the court shall appoint an attorney who shall represent the disabled party throughout the proceeding.

(2) If there is a dispute as to whether a party who is not represented has a disability that makes the party incapable of consenting or participating effectively in the proceeding, the court shall:

(A) hold a hearing promptly to resolve the dispute;

(B) appoint an attorney to represent the alleged disabled party at that hearing;

(C) provide notice of that hearing to all parties; and

(D) if the court finds at the hearing that the party has such a disability, appoint an attorney who shall represent the disabled party throughout the proceeding.

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-307 as to a Public Agency Guardianship; 5-307 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-3A-07 as to a Private Agency Guardianship; and 5-3B-06 as to an Independent Adoption. For eligibility of an individual for representation by the Office of the Public Defender, see Code, Family Law Article, §5-307 and Code, Article 27A, §4.

(c) Service of Show Cause Order

(1) Method of Service

The show cause order shall be served on those persons and in the manner required by Code, Family Law Article:

(A) §5-316 in a Public Agency Guardianship;

(B) §5-334 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR;

(C) §5-3A-15 in a Private Agency Guardianship; or

(D) §5-3B-15 in an Independent Adoption.

(2) Time for Service

Unless the court orders otherwise, a show cause order shall be served within 90 days after the date it is issued. If service is not made within that period, a new show cause order shall be issued at the request of the petitioner.

(3) Notice of Objection

A show cause order shall be served with two copies of a pre-captioned notice of objection form in substantially the form set forth in section (f) of this Rule. In a public agency guardianship or adoption, a copy of the petition shall be attached.

(d) Notice of Change of Name

If the person to be adopted is an adult and the petitioner desires to change the name of the person to be adopted to a surname other than that of the petitioner, notice of a proposed change of name shall also be given in the manner provided in Rule 15-901.

(e) Form of Show Cause Order

Except as provided in section (g) of this Rule, the show cause order shall be substantially in the following form:

IMPORTANT

THIS IS A COURT ORDER. IF YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT THE ORDER

SAYS, HAVE SOMEONE EXPLAIN IT TO YOU. YOUR RIGHT TO AN ATTORNEY IS EXPLAINED IN PARAGRAPH 3 OF THIS ORDER. IF YOU DO NOT MAKE SURE THAT THE COURT RECEIVES YOUR NOTICE OF OBJECTION ON OR

BEFORE THE DEADLINE STATED IN PARAGRAPH 2 OF THIS ORDER, YOU HAVE AGREED TO A TERMINATION OF YOUR PARENTAL RIGHTS.

(Note to Drafter of Show Cause Order: For the form of the caption of the Show Cause Order, see Rule 9-103 (a).)

SHOW CAUSE ORDER

TO:

________________________________________________________________

(Name of Person to be Served)

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

(Address, including County)

________________________________________________________________

(Relationship of person served to individual who is the subject

of the proceeding)

You are hereby notified that:

1. Filing of Petition.

A petition has been filed for _______________________________

(Adoption/Guardianship)

of __________________________________________________________ who

(Name of individual who is the subject of the proceeding)

was born at __________________ on ______________________________.

(Birthplace) (Date of Birth)

(If the petition is for guardianship, include the following

sentence: The petition was filed by ________________________

_____________________________________________________________ ).

(Name of child placement agency seeking guardianship)

2. Right to Object; Time for Objecting

If you wish to object to the _______________________________,

(Adoption/Guardianship)

you must file a notice of objection with the clerk of the court

at _____________________________________________________________

(Address of Courthouse)

within __________ days after this Order is served on you. For

your convenience, a form notice of objection is attached to this

Order.

WHETHER THE PETITION REQUESTS ADOPTION OR GUARDIANSHIP, IF YOU

DO NOT MAKE SURE THAT THE COURT RECEIVES YOUR NOTICE OF OBJECTION

ON OR BEFORE THE DEADLINE STATED ABOVE, YOU HAVE AGREED TO THE

TERMINATION OF YOUR PARENTAL RIGHTS.

3. Right to an Attorney

(a) You have the right to speak with an attorney and

obtain independent legal advice.

(b) An attorney may already have been appointed for you

. If you have been notified that an

attorney has been appointed for you,

you should speak immediately with that attorney.

(c) If an attorney has not already contacted you, you may be

entitled to have the court appoint an attorney for you if:

(Note to Drafter of Show Cause Order: Include only those of the following paragraphs that are applicable to the type of guardianship or adoption proceeding that has been filed.)

[In a Public Agency Guardianship:]

You are a parent of the person for whom a guardian is sought and:

(A) you are under 18 years of age; or

(B) you have a disability that makes you unable to participate effectively in the case; or

(C) you object to the guardianship and cannot afford to hire an attorney because you are indigent.

[In a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR:]

(1) You are the person to be adopted;

OR

(2) You are a parent of the person to be adopted and:

(A) you are under 18 years of age; or

(B) you have a disability that makes you unable to participate effectively in the adoption case; or

(C) you object to the adoption and cannot afford to hire an attorney because you are indigent.

[In a Public Agency Adoption after TPR:]

You are the person to be adopted.

[In a Private Agency Guardianship:]

You are a parent of the person for whom a guardian is sought and:

(A) you are under 18 years of age; or

(B) you have a disability that makes you unable to participate effectively in the case.

[In a Private Agency Adoption:]

You are the person to be adopted and:

(A) you are at least 10 years old but are not yet 18; or

(B) you have a disability that makes you unable to participate effectively in the adoption case.

[In an Independent Adoption:]

(1) You are the person to be adopted and:

(A) you are at least 10 years old; and

(B) you have a disability that makes you unable to participate effectively in the adoption case;

OR

(2) You are a parent of the person to be adopted and:

(A) you are under 18 years of age; or

(B) you have a disability that makes you unable to participate effectively in the adoption case.

IF YOU BELIEVE YOU ARE ENTITLED TO HAVE THE COURT APPOINT

AN ATTORNEY FOR YOU AND YOU WANT AN ATTORNEY, YOU MUST NOTIFY THE

COURT BEFORE THE TIME YOUR NOTICE OF OBJECTION MUST BE FILED.

HOWEVER, EVEN IF YOU HAVE OR WANT TO HAVE AN ATTORNEY, YOU MUST

STILL FILE THE NOTICE OF OBJECTION ON OR BEFORE THE DEADLINE

STATED IN PARAGRAPH 2 OF THIS ORDER. IF YOU DO NOT MAKE SURE

THAT THE COURT RECEIVES YOUR NOTICE OF OBJECTION ON OR BEFORE THE

DEADLINE STATED, YOU HAVE AGREED TO THE TERMINATION OF YOUR

PARENTAL RIGHTS.

For your convenience, a request for appointment of an

attorney is printed on the notice of objection form attached to

this Order.

(d) You

are entitled to consult an attorney chosen by you, even if you

are not entitled to an attorney appointed by the court. If you

employ an attorney, you may be responsible for any fees and costs

charged by that attorney unless

the court orders

another party to pay all or part of those fees or expenses.

(e) If you wish further information concerning appointment of

an attorney by the court or concerning adoption counseling and

guidance, you may contact

____________________________________

(Name of Court Official)

____________________________________

(Address)

____________________________________

(Telephone Number)

4. Option to Receive Adoption Counseling

If this is an adoption proceeding, you also may have the

option to receive adoption counseling and guidance. You may have

to pay for that service unless another

party agrees to pay or the court orders another party to pay

all or part of those charges.

Date of issue: ________________________________________________

________________________________________________

(Judge)

(f) Form of Notice of Objection

The notice of objection shall be substantially in the

following form:

(Note to Drafter of the Notice of Objection/Request for Appointment of Attorney: For the caption of the form, see Rule 9-103 (a).)

NOTICE OF OBJECTION/REQUEST FOR APPOINTMENT OF ATTORNEY

(Instructions to the person served with the show cause order:

IF YOU WISH TO OBJECT, YOU MUST MAKE SURE THAT THE COURT

RECEIVES YOUR NOTICE OF OBJECTION ON OR BEFORE THE DEADLINE

STATED IN THE SHOW CAUSE ORDER. You may use this form to do so.

You need only sign this form, print or type your name, address,

and telephone number underneath your signature, and mail or

deliver it to the court at the address shown in paragraph 2 of

the show cause order. IF THE COURT HAS NOT RECEIVED YOUR NOTICE

OF OBJECTION ON OR BEFORE THE DEADLINE STATED IN PARAGRAPH 2 OF

THE SHOW CAUSE ORDER, YOU HAVE AGREED TO THE TERMINATION OF

YOUR PARENTAL RIGHTS. If you wish to state your reasons, you may

state them on this sheet.)

1. I object to the _________________________________ of the

(Adoption/Guardianship)

above-named individual. My reasons for objecting are as follows:

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

2. I do/do not want the Court to appoint an attorney to

(Circle one) represent me. If I circled that I do want the court to appoint

an attorney for me, I believe that I am entitled to a court-

appointed attorney because:

(Check appropriate box or boxes)

.

(Note to Drafter of the Notice of Objection/Request for Appointment of Attorney: Include only those of the following paragraphs which are applicable to the type of guardianship or adoption proceeding that has been filed.)

[In a Public Agency Guardianship:]

[ ] I am the parent of the person for whom a guardian is sought and:

[ ] I am under 18 years of age.

[ ] I have a disability that makes me unable to participate effectively in the case.

[ ] I object to the guardianship and cannot afford to hire an attorney because I am indigent.

[In a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR:]

[ ] I am the person to be adopted.

OR

[ ] I am the parent of the person to be adopted and:

[ ] I am under 18 years of age.

[ ] I have a disability that makes me unable to participate effectively in the adoption case.

[ ] I object to the adoption and cannot afford to hire an attorney because I am indigent.

[In a Public Agency Adoption after TPR:]

[ ] I am the person to be adopted.

[In a Private Agency Guardianship:]

[ ] I am a parent of the person for whom a guardian is sought and:

[ ] I am under 18 years of age.

[ ] I have a disability that makes me unable to participate effectively in the case.

[In a Private Agency Adoption:]

[ ] I am the person to be adopted and:

[ ] I am at least 10 years old but am not yet 18.

[ ] I have a disability that makes me unable to participate effectively in the adoption case.

[In an Independent Adoption:]

[ ] I am the person to be adopted and:

[ ] I am at least 10 years old and I have a disability that makes me unable to participate effectively in the adoption case.

OR

[ ] I am the parent of the person to be adopted and:

[ ] I am under 18 years of age.

[ ] I have a disability that makes me unable to participate effectively in the adoption case.

_______________________________________

(Signature)

_______________________________________

(Name, printed or typed)

_______________________________________

(Address)

_______________________________________

(Telephone Number)

(g) Form of Notice for Service by Publication and Posting

The notice for service by publication and posting shall

be in the form required by Code, Family Law Article:

(1) §5-316 in a Public Agency Guardianship;

(2) §5-334 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR;

(3) §5-3A-15 in a Private Agency Guardianship; or

(4) §5-3B-15 in an Independent Adoption.

Source: This Rule is in part derived from former Rule D74 and is in part new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-106 by deleting the text of existing section

(a) and replacing it with references to certain Code provisions

pertaining to appointment of an attorney; by adding a new section

(b) and cross reference after section (b) pertaining to payment

of attorneys' fees; by adding a new section (c) pertaining to an

affidavit of attorney; by deleting the text of existing section

(b), relettering the section (d), and replacing the text of the

section with references to certain Code provisions and new

language pertaining to investigations; by deleting existing

section (c); and by relettering the Rule, as follows:

Rule 9-106. APPOINTMENT OF ATTORNEY - ATTORNEY AFFIDAVIT -

INVESTIGATION

(a) Appointment of Attorney

The court shall appoint an attorney for a party when required by Code, Family Law Article:

(1) §5-307 in a Public Agency Guardianship;

(2) §5-307 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR;

(3) §5-307 in a Public Agency Adoption after TPR;

(4) §5-3A-07 in a Private Agency Guardianship;

(5) §5-3A-07 in a Private Agency Adoption; or

(6) §5-3B-06 in an Independent Adoption.

(b) Payment of Attorney's Fees

Even if the prospective adoptee is not entitled to a court-appointed attorney, the person is entitled to consult an attorney chosen by that person. The adoptive parents or agency may agree to pay all or part of the attorney's fees on behalf of the person, or the court may order the adoptive parents or agency to do so.

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-309 as to a Public Agency Guardianship; 5-309 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-3A-09 as to a Private Agency Guardianship; and 5-3B-08 as to an Independent Adoption.

(c) Affidavit of Attorney

(1) With a Parental Consent

The attorney shall file an affidavit in the applicable form set forth at the end of this Title with a consent signed by a parent when required by Code, Family Law Article:

(A) §5-321 in a Public Agency Guardianship;

(B) §5-339 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR;

(C) §5-3A-19 in a Private Agency Guardianship; or

(D) §5-3B-21 in an Independent Adoption.

(2) With a Consent of a Prospective Adoptee

The attorney shall file an affidavit in the applicable form set forth at the end of this Title with a consent signed by a prospective adoptee if the adoptee is represented and

(A) is a minor; or

(B) has a disability that makes the prospective adoptee incapable of effectively participating in a case.

Cross reference: See Rule 9-102 (b)(3).

(d) Investigation by Court

(1) Optional

The court may order an investigation as provided by Code, Family Law Article:

(A) §5-317 in a Public Agency Guardianship;

(B) §5-3A-16 in a Private Agency Guardianship; or

(C) §5-3B-16 in an Independent Adoption.

(2) Mandatory

The court shall order an investigation in a nonconsensual Independent Adoption as provided in Code, Family Law Article, §5-3B-16.

(3) Recommendation of Investigator

If requested by the court, the report of any investigation may include the recommendation of the investigator.

(4) In Writing

The report of any investigation shall be submitted to the court in writing and filed among the records of the proceeding.

Source: This Rule is new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-107 by deleting language from subsection (b)(4)

and replacing it with new language that conforms to statutory

changes, by changing the words "the petitioner" to the words "all

parties" in section (c), and by changing the words "the

petitioner" to the words "any party" in sections (d) and (e), as

follows:

Rule 9-107. OBJECTION

(a) In General

Any person having a right to participate in a proceeding for adoption or guardianship may file a notice of objection to the adoption or guardianship. The notice may include a statement of the reasons for the objection and a request for the appointment of an attorney.

Cross reference: See Rule 9-105 for Form of Notice of Objection.

(b) Time for Filing Objection

(1) In General

Except as provided by subsections (b)(2) and (b)(3) of this Rule, any notice of objection to an adoption or guardianship shall be filed within 30 days after the show cause order is served.

(2) Service Outside of the State

If the show cause order is served outside the State but within the United States, the time for filing a notice of objection shall be within 60 days after service.

(3) Service Outside of the United States

If the show cause order is served outside the United States, the time for filing a notice of objection shall be within 90 days after service.

(4) Service by Publication in a Newspaper and on Website

If the court orders service by publication, the deadline for filing a notice of objection shall be not less than 30 days from the later of (A) the date that the notice is published in a newspaper or (B) the last day that the notice is published on the Maryland Department of Human Resources website.

(c) Service

The clerk shall serve a copy of any notice of objection on all parties in the manner provided by Rule 1-321.

(d) Response

Within 10 days after being served with a notice of objection, any party may file a response challenging the standing of the person to file the notice or the timeliness of the filing of the notice .

(e) Hearing

If any party files a response, the court shall hold a hearing promptly on the issues raised in the response.

(f) Access to Records

If the court determines that the person filing the notice of objection has standing to do so and that the notice is timely filed, it shall enter an order permitting the person to inspect the papers filed in the proceeding subject to reasonable conditions imposed in the order.

Source: This Rule is derived in part from former Rule D76 and is in part new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-108 by adding a new cross reference, as

follows:

Rule 9-108. TEMPORARY CUSTODY

The court may make an award of temporary custody of a minor prior to a hearing.

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §5-3B-12.

Source: This Rule is derived from former Rule D78 (d).

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-109 by adding references to certain Code

provisions to subsection (a)(1); by making optional the holding

of a hearing in a consensual public or private agency

guardianship; by adding a cross reference after subsection

(a)(2); by deleting section (b); by adding a new subsection

(b)(2) referring to certain Code provisions; by changing the

words "are in order" to the words "have been filed" in subsection

(b)(3)(D); by revising subsection (b)(3)(F) to apply only to a

nonconsensual independent adoption, including a reference to

certain Code provisions; and by adding a cross reference after

subsection (b)(3)(I), as follows:

Rule 9-109. HEARING ON MERITS

(a) Requirement

(1) Generally

The court shall hold a hearing and make findings on the record on the merits of a guardianship or adoption petition as provided by Code, Family Law Article:

(A) §5-318 in a nonconsensual Public Agency Guardianship;

(B) §5-335 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR;

(C) §5-347 in a Public Agency Adoption after TPR;

(D) §5-3A-32 in a Private Agency Adoption; or

(E) §5-3B-17 in an Independent Adoption.

(2) Guardianship

The court may hold a hearing on the merits of a consensual Public or Private Agency Guardianship petition.

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §5-318 as to Public Agency Guardianship.

(b) Adoption

(1) Persons Present at Hearing

Unless excused for good cause shown, each petitioner and the person to be adopted shall be present at the hearing on the merits in an adoption action. The hearing shall be conducted out of the presence of all persons other than the petitioners, the person to be adopted, and those persons whose presence the court deems necessary or desirable.

Committee note: Social policy against public disclosure of adoption proceedings compels all hearings to be as private as possible. This Rule leaves to the discretion of the trial court the extent to which this consideration must be relaxed in the interest of fair trial.

(2) Considerations

In ruling on a petition for adoption, the court shall make the considerations required by Code, Family Law Article:

(A) §5-337 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR;

(B) §5-349 in a Public Agency Adoption after TPR;

(C) §5-3A-34 in a Private Agency Adoption; or

(D) §5-3B-19 in an Independent Adoption.

(3) Findings by the Court

In an adoption action, the court shall determine on the record whether:

(A) Necessary consents have been filed;

(B) Any required consents have been revoked;

Cross reference: Rules 9-111 (b) and 9-112 (a).

(C) Appropriate notices have been served;

(D) Any investigative reports have been filed;	(E) All questioned or disputed issues have been resolved;

(F) In a nonconsensual independent adoption, whether the findings required by Code, Family Law Article, §5-3B-21 have been met;

(G) The adoptive parents are fit and proper to be the parents of the person to be adopted;

(H) The best interests of the person to be adopted will be served by the adoption; and

(I) Other appropriate matters have been resolved.

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-337 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-349 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; 5-3A-34 as to a Private Agency Adoption; and 5-3B-19, 5-3B-22, and 5-3B-23 as to an Independent Adoption.

Source: This Rule is in part derived from former Rule D77 and is in part new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-110 by updating the cross reference at the end

of the Rule and to make a stylistic change, as follows:

Rule 9-110. ACCOUNTING REPORT

(a) Duty to File

In an independent adoption other than an adoption by a stepparent or relative of the person to be adopted, each petitioner shall file an accounting report before the entry of a final judgment of adoption.

(b) Contents

The accounting report shall include:

(1) a statement of all payments and disbursements of money or anything of value, including benefits in kind, made by or on behalf of any petitioner in connection with the adoption;

(2) the approximate date the payment or disbursement was made or the benefit was provided;

(3) the name of the payee and the beneficiary; and

(4) the amount of the payment or disbursement or the reasonable value of the benefit provided.

The court may require the production of documentation to substantiate the accounting report.

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §5-3B-24 as to an Independent Adoption.

Source: This Rule is new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-111 by deleting language from section (a) and

adding language referring to certain Code provisions, by deleting

the words "natural or biological" from section (e), and by

updating statutory references in the Committee note at the end of

the Rule, as follows:

Rule 9-111. JUDGMENT OF ADOPTION OR GUARDIANSHIP

(a) Time

The court may not enter a judgment of adoption or guardianship before the time set forth in Code, Family Law Article:

(1) §5-319 in a Public Agency Guardianship;

(2) §5-336 in a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR;

(3) §5-348 in a Public Agency Adoption after TPR;

(4) §5-3A-17 in a Private Agency Guardianship;

(5) §5-3A-33 in a Private Agency Adoption; or

(6) §5-3B-18 in an Independent Adoption.

(b) Information from Other Court

If a required consent indicates that any revocation of the consent must be filed in a court other than the trial court, the trial court may not enter a judgment of adoption or guardianship until it has obtained from the other court a copy of all papers filed in connection with the consent or an affidavit of the clerk of the other court that no papers were filed in connection with the consent.

(c) Supplemental Report

Before entering a judgment of adoption or guardianship, the court may require a supplemental written report from the investigating officer or agency.

(d) Change of Name

If the name of the person adopted is changed, the judgment of adoption shall state the new name of the person adopted and the names of the adopting parents.

(e) Spouse of Parent

If the adopting parent is the spouse of a parent of the person to be adopted, the judgment shall specifically state whether and to what extent the parental rights of the parent are affected.

Committee note: Any attempt to set aside a judgment of adoption by reason of a procedural defect shall be filed with the court within one year following entry of the judgment. See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-342 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-353 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; 5-3A-37 as to a Private Agency Adoption; and 5-3B-26 as to an Independent Adoption.

An adoptive relationship created by a judgment of adoption in another jurisdiction shall be given full faith and credit by the courts of this State. See Code, Family Law Article, §§5-305 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-305 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; 5-3A-05 as to a Private Agency Adoption; and 5-3B-04 as to an Independent Adoption.

For the legal effect of adoption , see Code, Family Law Article, §§5-341 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-352 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; 5-3A-36 as to a Private Agency Adoption; and 5-3B-25 as to an Independent Adoption.

Source: This Rule is derived in part from former Rule D79 and is in part new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-112 by adding a sentence at the end of section

(b) providing for the clerk to notify each person entitled to

notice of the finalization of the adoption, as follows:

Rule 9-112. COURT RECORDS

(a) Dockets

The clerk shall keep separate dockets for (1) adoption and guardianship proceedings and (2) revocations of consent to adoption or guardianship for which there are no pending adoption or guardianship proceedings in that county. These dockets are not open to inspection by any person, including the parents, except upon order of court. If the index to a docket is kept apart from the docket itself, the index is open to inspection.

(b) Sealing of Records

All pleadings and other papers in adoption and guardianship proceedings shall be sealed when they are filed and are not open to inspection by any person, including the parents, except upon an order of court. If a final decree of adoption was entered before June 1, 1947 and the record is not already sealed, the record may be sealed only on motion of a party. The clerk shall notify each person entitled to notice that the adoption has been finalized.

Cross reference: See Code, Health-General Article, §4-211, concerning the amendment and replacement of birth certificates following adoption and the requirement that the clerk transmit to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene a report of adoption or revocation of adoption.

Source: This Rule is derived from former Rule D80 a and c.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

CHAPTER 100 - ADOPTION; GUARDIANSHIP TERMINATING

PARENTAL RIGHTS

AMEND Rule 9-113 by changing the name of the Rule, by

deleting the tagline to section (a), by revising language

pertaining to certain medical and mental health records and

history, by providing for an affirmation to the court of

reasonable efforts to compile a prospective adoptee's and the

adoptee's parents' medical and mental health information, by

deleting section (b), and by updating the cross reference at the

end of the Rule, as follows:

Rule 9-113. MEDICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH HISTORY

Except in an adoption by a stepparent or relative, the person authorized to place a minor child for adoption shall affirm to the court that the person has made reasonable efforts to compile and make available to a prospective adoptive parent (1) all of the prospective adoptee's medical and mental health records that the person has or (2) a comprehensive medical and mental health history of the prospective adoptee and the prospective adoptee's parents, except that the records of the parents shall contain no identifying information unless identifying information was previously exchanged by agreement.

Cross reference: See Code, Family Law Article, §§ 5-356 as to a Public Agency Adoption without Prior TPR; 5-356 as to a Public Agency Adoption after TPR; and 5-3A-39 as to a Private Agency Adoption.

Source: This Rule is new.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Form 9-102.1. CONSENT OF PARENT TO A PUBLIC AGENCY GUARDIANSHIP

Form 9-102.2. CONSENT OF PARENT TO A PRIVATE AGENCY GUARDIANSHIP

Form 9-102.3. CONSENT OF PARENT TO A PUBLIC AGENCY ADOPTION

WITHOUT PRIOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

Form 9-102.4. CONSENT OF PARENT TO AN INDEPENDENT ADOPTION WITH

TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

Form 9-102.5. CONSENT OF PARENT TO AN INDEPENDENT ADOPTION

WITHOUT TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

Form 9-102.6. CONSENT OF CHILD TO A PUBLIC AGENCY ADOPTION OR

PRIVATE AGENCY ADOPTION

Form 9-102.7. CONSENT OF CHILD TO AN INDEPENDENT ADOPTION

Form 9-102.8. ATTORNEY AFFIDAVIT AS TO CONSENT OF A PARENT TO A

PUBLIC AGENCY GUARDIANSHIP OR PRIVATE AGENCY

GUARDIANSHIP

Form 9-102.9. ATTORNEY AFFIDAVIT AS TO CONSENT OF A PARENT TO

ADOPTION

Form 9-102.10. ATTORNEY AFFIDAVIT AS TO CONSENT OF A CHILD TO

ADOPTION

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

ADD new Form 9-102.1, as follows:

Form 9-102.1. CONSENT OF PARENT TO A PUBLIC AGENCY GUARDIANSHIP

CONSENT OF PARENT TO GUARDIANSHIP WITH THE RIGHT TO

CONSENT TO ADOPTION OF __________________________ TO THE

_______________________ DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES

INSTRUCTIONS

These instructions and attached consent form may be used only in cases where the child is a Child in Need of Assistance. Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3, Part II.

The attached consent form is an important legal document. You must read all of these instructions BEFORE you sign the consent form. If you do not understand the instructions or the consent form, you should not sign it. If you are under 18 years old or if you have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand, do not sign the consent form unless you have a lawyer.

A. Right to Have This Information in a Language You Understand

You have the right to have these instructions and the consent form translated into a language that you understand. If you cannot read or understand English, you should not sign the consent form. You should have this form translated for you into a language you do understand. The translated consent form is the one you should read and decide whether or not to sign. Any translation must have an affidavit attached in which the translator states that it is a true and accurate translation of this document.

B. Right to Speak with a Lawyer

You have the right to speak with a lawyer before you decide whether or not to consent.

If you are unable to afford a lawyer, you may be eligible for a lawyer through the Office of the Public Defender. You should contact the Office of the Public Defender, and ask for a lawyer to represent you in a D.S.S. (Department of Social Services) guardianship case.

You should not sign the consent form without a lawyer if you are under 18 years old or have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand this document. If you are under 18 years old or have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand this document, you are required to have a lawyer review the form with you before you can consent to the guardianship. You should contact the Office of the Public Defender, or let the Juvenile Court know that you need to have a lawyer appointed for you.

Even if you do not have the right to have the court appoint a lawyer for you or to be represented through the Office of the Public Defender, you have the right to speak with a lawyer you choose before you decide whether to consent.

C. Post-adoption Agreement

If you have made a written agreement with the adoptive parents for future contact (known as a post-adoption agreement), a copy of that agreement must be attached to the signed consent form. If you have a post-adoption agreement, and, after the adoption, the adoptive parents do not do what they agreed to do, it will not affect your consent to the guardianship or the adoption. However, if that happens, you have the right to ask a judge to make them do what they agreed to do. The judge can order you and the adoptive parents to go to mediation, order the adoptive parents to do what they agreed to do, or change the agreement if the judge decides that it is in the child's best interest.

D. Conditional Consent

If you decide to sign the consent form, you will have two choices:

(1) you can consent to the guardianship and the adoption of your child by a family approved by D.S.S.; or

(2) you can consent to the guardianship only if the child is adopted into a specific family. This is called a "conditional consent." If you sign a conditional consent, and the family whose name is on the consent cannot adopt the child, your consent will no longer be valid. The court will try to locate you to find out if you want to sign a new consent. If you do not sign a new consent, the court can have a trial to decide whether or not your parental rights should be ended (terminated) and whether or not guardianship with the right to consent to adoption should be granted to D.S.S., even without your consent.

E. Effect of Signing the Consent Form

IF YOU SIGN THE CONSENT FORM, AND THE GUARDIANSHIP IS GRANTED, YOU WILL BE GIVING UP ALL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES RELATING TO THE CHILD.

If you have a post-adoption agreement, you will keep only the rights the agreement gives you. Violation of the agreement will not affect your consent or the adoption.

After you sign the consent form, the person or agency to whom you give the form must file it in the Juvenile Court promptly. If a guardianship case has been filed, it will be filed in the guardianship case. If a guardianship case has not been filed, it will be filed in the child's CINA (Child in Need of Assistance) case. When it is filed, a copy of the filed consent form will be sent to you at the address you list at the end of the consent form. It is your responsibility to let the court know if your address changes.

F.	Right to Revoke Consent

If you sign the consent form and then change your mind and no longer want to consent, you have the right to revoke (cancel) the consent within 30 days after the date that it is filed in Juvenile Court. The only way that you can revoke this consent is by giving a signed written revocation statement with the name, sex, and date of birth of the child (if you know it) to:

Juvenile Clerk, Circuit Court for __________________________, at

______________________________________________________(Address).

The written and signed revocation statement must be sent to the court, not to your social worker or lawyer. You may deliver your written revocation of consent in person or by mail. If it is not received by the Juvenile Clerk's office within 30 days after the date the consent form was filed in court, it will be too late, and you will not be able to withdraw the consent or stop the guardianship from being granted.

G.	Further Notice of Guardianship and Adoption Proceedings

A petition for guardianship with the right to consent to adoption has been or will be filed in _____________________ Juvenile Court. If you sign the consent form, your written consent form will also be filed in the Juvenile Court. You have the right to be notified when the petition is filed, about any hearings before or after guardianship is granted, if and when guardianship is granted, and if and when the child is adopted. Any notices will be sent to the address given by you on the consent form, unless you write to the Juvenile Clerk at ____________________________________ (court's address) and give the clerk your new address. You may waive (give up) your right to notice if you wish to do so. Even if you give up your right to notice, someone from the court may contact you if further information is needed.

H.	Compensation

Under Maryland law, you are not allowed to charge or receive money or compensation of any kind for the placement for adoption of your child or for your agreement to the adoptive parent having custody of your child, except that reasonable and customary charges or fees for adoption counseling, hospital, legal, or medical services may be paid.

I.	Access to Birth and Adoption Records

When your child is at least 21 years old, your child, your child's other parent, or you may apply to the Maryland Secretary of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for access to certain birth and adoption records. If you do not want information about you to be disclosed (given) to that person, you have the right to prevent disclosure by filing a disclosure veto. Attached to this document is a copy of the form that you may use if you want to file a disclosure veto.

J.	Adoption Search, Contact, and Reunion Services

When your child is at least 21 years old, your child, your child's other parent or siblings, or you may apply to the Director of the Social Services Administration of the Maryland Department of Human Resources for adoption search, contact, and reunion services.

K.	Rights Under the Indian Child Welfare Act

If you or your child are members of or are eligible for membership in an Indian tribe, as defined by federal law, you have special legal rights under the Indian Child Welfare Act. You should not sign this consent form if you believe this may apply to you. You should tell the person requesting the consent or the court that you believe that your child's case should be handled under the Indian Child Welfare Act.

L. Authorization for Access to Medical and Mental Health Records

You may be asked to sign a separate form (authorization) to allow the adoptive parents and D.S.S. to get your child's medical and mental health records or your medical and mental health records. If you agree to allow access to this information, the records given to the adoptive parents will not include identifying information about you unless identifying information was previously exchanged by agreement.

M.	Signature, Witness, and Copy

If you decide to complete and sign the consent form, you must have a witness present when you sign it. The witness must be someone 18 or older and should not be the child or the child's other parent. You must complete and sign the form with a pen and print or type in your name, address, and telephone number. The witness also must sign the form and print or type in the witness' name, address, and telephone number in the blanks on the last page.

If you have a post-adoption agreement, you must attach a copy to the signed consent form.

You have the right to receive a copy of the signed consent form.

STOP HERE IF YOU DID NOT UNDERSTAND SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ OR IF YOU WANT TO SPEAK WITH A LAWYER BEFORE YOU DECIDE IF YOU WANT TO SIGN THE CONSENT FORM.

If you wish to sign the consent form, you must also sign here to verify that you read these instructions and understand them:

______________________________________ ________________________

(Signature) (Date)

You must attach a copy of these signed instructions to the signed consent form.

CONSENT TO GUARDIANSHIP WITH THE RIGHT TO CONSENT TO ADOPTION OF

______________________________ TO ____________________________

DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES

Use a pen to fill out this form. You must complete each section.

A.	Identifying Information

1. Language.

I understand English, or this consent form has been

translated into ____________________________________, a language

that I understand.

2. Name.

My name is ____________________________________________.

3. Age.

My date of birth is ___________________________________.

4. Child.

The child who is the subject of this consent was born on

_________________ at _________________________________________ ,

(date)	(name of hospital or address of birthplace)

in _____________________________________________________________.

(city, state, and county of birth)

5. Status as Parent. Check all that apply.

(a) I am

[ ] the mother of the child

[ ] the father of the child

[ ] alleged to be the father of the child

(b) I was married to the mother of the child

[ ] at the time of conception of the child

[ ] at the time the child was born.

B.	Right to Speak with a Lawyer

I WANT TO COMPLETE THIS CONSENT FORM BECAUSE:

Check one of the following:

[ ]	I already have spoken with a lawyer whose name and

telephone number are _________________________________.

I have read the instructions in front of this form, and

I am ready to consent to the guardianship with the

right to consent to adoption.

OR

[ ] I am at least 18 years old and am able to understand

this document. I have read the instructions at the

front of this form, and I do not want to speak with a

lawyer before I consent to the guardianship with the

right to consent to adoption.

C.	Consent

Check one of the following statements:

[ ] I voluntarily and of my own free will consent to the

ending (termination) of my parental rights and to the

appointment of ___________________ Department of Social

Services to be the guardian of my child, with the right

of the guardian to consent to adoption.

OR

[ ] I voluntarily and of my own free will consent to the

ending (termination) of my parental rights and to the

appointment of __________________________ Department of

Social Services, to be the guardian of my child as long

as my child is adopted by ____________________________.

D.	Notice

Check one of the following:

[ ] I give up (waive) the right to any further notice of

the guardianship case, any reviews after guardianship

is granted, or when my child is adopted.

OR

[ ]	I give up (waive) the right to any further notice of

the guardianship case or any reviews after guardianship

is granted, but I want to be notified when my child is

adopted.

OR

[ ] I want to be notified about anything that happens in

the guardianship case, any reviews after guardianship

is granted, and when my child is adopted.

E.	Revocation Rights

I understand that if I change my mind and no longer consent

to the guardianship with the right to consent to adoption, I have

the right to revoke this consent within 30 days after it is filed

in Juvenile Court. I understand that the only way that I can

revoke this consent is by giving a signed written revocation to

the Juvenile Clerk, Circuit Court for ________________________ at

________________________________________________________________.

F.	Effect of this Consent

I UNDERSTAND THAT IF I SIGN THIS CONSENT FORM, AND GUARDIANSHIP

IS GRANTED, I WILL BE GIVING UP ALL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

RELATING TO THE CHILD, EXCEPT THOSE RIGHTS THAT I HAVE KEPT UNDER

ANY WRITTEN POST-ADOPTION AGREEMENT.

G.	Oath and Signature

I have read carefully and understand the instructions at the

front of this consent form. I am signing this consent form

voluntarily and of my own free will.

I solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury that the

contents of this consent form are true to the best of my

knowledge, information, and belief.

___________________________	________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

________________________________

(Telephone Number)

Witness:

________________________________	________________________

(Signature)	(Date)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

A COPY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS WITH YOUR SIGNATURE MUST BE ATTACHED TO THIS CONSENT FORM.

IF YOU HAVE A POST-ADOPTION AGREEMENT, ATTACH A COPY TO THIS CONSENT FORM.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

ADD new Form 9-102.2, as follows:

Form 9-102.2. CONSENT OF PARENT TO A PRIVATE AGENCY GUARDIANSHIP

CONSENT OF PARENT TO GUARDIANSHIP WITH THE RIGHT TO CONSENT

TO ADOPTION OF __________________________________ TO

________________________________, A LICENSED PRIVATE

ADOPTION AGENCY

INSTRUCTIONS

These instructions and attached consent form may be used only in cases where the child is being placed for adoption with the assistance of a licensed private adoption agency. Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3A.

The attached consent form is an important legal document. You must read all of these instructions BEFORE you sign the consent form. If you do not understand the instructions or the consent form, you should not sign it. If you are under 18 years old or if you have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand, do not sign the consent form unless you have a lawyer.

A. Right to Have This Information in a Language You Understand

You have the right to have these instructions and the consent form translated into a language that you understand. If you cannot read or understand English, you should not sign the consent form. You should have this form translated for you into a language you do understand. The translated consent form is the one you should read and decide whether or not to sign. Any translation must have an affidavit attached in which the translator states that it is a true and accurate translation of this document.

B. Right to Speak with a Lawyer

You have the right to speak with a lawyer before you decide whether or not to consent.

You should not sign the consent form without a lawyer if you are under 18 years old or have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand this document. If you are under 18 years old or have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand this document, you are required to have a lawyer review the form with you before you can consent to the guardianship.

Even if you are not required to have a lawyer, you have the right to speak with a lawyer you choose before you decide whether to consent.

You can ask the court to require the agency seeking guardianship of your child to pay the costs of the lawyer. The judge does not have to grant that request but may do so.

C. Post-adoption Agreement

If you have made a written agreement with the adoptive parents for future contact (known as a post-adoption agreement), a copy of that agreement must be attached to the signed consent form. If you have a post-adoption agreement, and, after adoption, the adoptive parents do not do what they agreed to do, it will not affect your consent to the guardianship or the adoption. However, if that happens, you have the right to ask a judge to make them do what they agreed to do. The judge can order you and the adoptive parents to go to mediation, order the adoptive parents to do what they agreed to do, or change the agreement if the judge decides that it is in the child's best interest.

D. Conditional Consent

If you decide to sign the consent form, you will have two choices:

(1) you can consent to the guardianship and the adoption of your child by a family approved by the adoption agency; or

(2) you can consent to the guardianship only if the child is adopted into a specific family. This is called a "conditional consent." If you sign a conditional consent, and the family whose name is on the consent cannot adopt the child, your consent will no longer be valid. The adoption agency will try to locate you to find out if you want to sign a new consent. If your parental rights have not been taken away (guardianship has not yet been granted), and you do not sign a new consent, the court will end the guardianship case. If your parental rights have been taken away (guardianship has been granted), and you do not sign a new consent, the court will decide whether it is in the child's best interests to continue the guardianship.

E.	Effect of Signing the Consent Form

IF YOU SIGN THE CONSENT FORM, AND GUARDIANSHIP IS GRANTED, YOU WILL BE GIVING UP ALL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES RELATING TO THE CHILD.

If you have a post-adoption agreement, you will keep only the rights the agreement gives you. Violation of the agreement will not affect your consent or the adoption.

F.	Right to Revoke Consent

If you sign the consent form and then change your mind and no longer want to consent, you have the right to revoke (cancel) the consent within 30 days after the date that you sign the consent form. The only way that you can revoke this consent is by giving a signed written revocation statement with the name, sex, and date of birth of the child (if you know it) to:

Adoption Clerk, Circuit Court for ___________ at _______________. (Address)

The revocation must be sent to the court, not to the lawyers, or the agency, or the people adopting the child. You may deliver your written revocation of consent in person or by mail. If it is not received by the Adoption Clerk's office within 30 days after the date you signed the consent form, it will be too late, and you will not be able to withdraw the consent or stop the guardianship from being granted.

If you sign the consent form, and then revoke your consent, and then decide to consent to the guardianship again, you will not be able to revoke your second consent if you give your second consent in court within one year of your revocation of this consent.

G.	Further Notice of Guardianship and Adoption Proceedings

A petition for guardianship with the right to consent to adoption has been or will be filed in __________________________ Circuit Court. If you sign the consent form, your written consent form will also be filed in the Circuit Court. You have the right to be notified when the petition is filed, about any hearings, if and when the guardianship is granted, and when the child is adopted. You also have the right to be notified if there is a delay in your child's adoption because:

1.	The adoption agency does not place your child with an

adoptive family within 270 days of being appointed the

guardian of your child;

2.	The adoption agency does not place your child with an

adoptive family within 180 days of the disruption of a

prior adoptive placement; or

3.	The adoption is not completed within 2 years after your

child's placement with the adoptive family.

Any notices will be sent to the address given by you on the consent form, unless you write to the Adoption Clerk at _________________________________ (court's address) and give the clerk your new address. You may waive (give up) your right to notice if you wish to do so. Even if you give up your right to notice, someone from the court may contact you if further information is needed.

H.	Compensation

Under Maryland law, you are not allowed to charge or receive money or compensation of any kind for the placement for adoption of your child or for your agreement to the adoptive parent having custody of your child, except that reasonable and customary charges or fees for adoption counseling, hospital, legal, or medical services may be paid.

I.	Access to Birth and Adoption Records

When your child is at least 21 years old, your child, your child's other parent, or you may apply to the Maryland Secretary of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for access to certain birth and adoption records. If you do not want information about you to be disclosed (given) to that person, you have the right to prevent disclosure by filing a disclosure veto. Attached to this document is a copy of the form that you may use if you want to file a disclosure veto.

J.	Adoption Search, Contact, and Reunion Services

When your child is at least 21 years old, your child, your child's other parent or siblings, or you may apply to the Director of the Social Services Administration of the Maryland Department of Human Resources for adoption search, contact, and reunion services.

K.	Rights Under the Indian Child Welfare Act

If you or your child are members of or are eligible for membership in an Indian tribe, as defined by federal law, you have special legal rights under the Indian Child Welfare Act. You should not sign this consent form if you believe this may apply to you. You should tell the person requesting the consent or the court that you believe that your child's case should be handled under the Indian Child Welfare Act.

L. Authorization for Access to Medical and Mental Health Records

You may be asked to sign a separate form (authorization) to allow the adoptive parents and adoption agency to get your child's medical and mental health records or your medical and mental health records. If you agree to allow access to this information, the records given to the adoptive parents will not include identifying information about you unless identifying information was previously exchanged by agreement.

M.	Signature, Witness, and Copy

If you decide to complete and sign the consent form, you must have a witness present when you sign it. The witness must be someone 18 or older and should not be the child or the child's other parent. You must complete and sign the form with a pen and print or type in your name, address, and telephone number. The witness also must sign the form and print or type in the witness' name, address, and telephone number in the blanks on the last page.

If you have a post-adoption agreement, you must attach a copy to the signed consent form.

You have the right to receive a copy of the signed consent form.

STOP HERE IF YOU DID NOT UNDERSTAND SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ OR IF YOU WANT TO SPEAK WITH A LAWYER BEFORE YOU DECIDE IF YOU WANT TO SIGN THE CONSENT FORM.

If you wish to sign the consent form, you must also sign here to verify that you read these instructions and understand them:

____________________________________ _________________________

(Signature) (Date)

You must attach a copy of these signed instructions to the signed consent form.

CONSENT TO GUARDIANSHIP WITH THE RIGHT TO CONSENT TO ADOPTION OF

_______________________________ TO ____________________________,

A LICENSED PRIVATE ADOPTION AGENCY

Use a pen to fill out this form. You must complete each section.

A.	Identifying Information

1. Language.

I understand English, or this consent form has been

translated into _____________________________________, a language

that I understand.

2. Name.

My name is ____________________________________________.

3. Age.

My date of birth is ___________________________________.

4. Child.

The child who is the subject of this consent was born on

___________________ at _______________________________________ ,

(date)	(name of hospital or address of birthplace)

in _____________________________________________________________.

(city, state, and county of birth)

5. Status as Parent. Check all that apply.

(a) I am

[ ] the mother of the child

[ ] the father of the child

[ ] alleged to be the father of the child

(b) I was married to the mother of the child

[ ] at the time of conception of the child

[ ] at the time the child was born.

B.	Right to Speak with a Lawyer

I WANT TO COMPLETE THIS CONSENT FORM BECAUSE:

Check one of the following:

[ ]	I already have spoken with a lawyer whose name and

telephone number are _________________________________.

I have read the instructions at the front of this form,

and I am ready to consent to the guardianship with the

right to consent to adoption.

OR

[ ]	I am at least 18 years old and am able to understand

this document. I have read the instructions at the

front of this form, and I do not want to speak with a

lawyer before I consent to the guardianship with the

right to consent to adoption.

C.	Consent

Check one of the following:

[ ]	I voluntarily and of my own free will consent to the

ending (termination) of my parental rights and to the

appointment of ___________________________, a licensed

private adoption agency, to be the guardian of my

child, with the right of the guardian to consent to

adoption.

OR

[ ]	I voluntarily and of my own free will consent to the

ending (termination) of my parental rights and to the

appointment of ___________________________, a licensed

private adoption agency, to be the guardian of my child

as long as my child is adopted by ____________________.

D.	Notice

Check one of the following:

[ ] I give up (waive) the right to any further notice of

the guardianship case, any delays in the adoption of my

child, or when my child is adopted.

OR

[ ] I give up (waive) the right to any further notice of

the guardianship case or any delays in the adoption of

my child, but I want to be notified when my child is

adopted.

OR

[ ]	I want to be notified about anything that happens in

the guardianship case, any delays in the adoption of my

child, and when my child is adopted.

E.	Revocation Rights

I understand that if I change my mind and no longer consent

to the guardianship with the right to consent to adoption, I have

the right to revoke this consent within 30 days after I sign

this consent form. I understand that the only way that I can

revoke this consent is by giving a signed written revocation to

the Adoption Clerk, Circuit Court for ___________________________

at______________________________________________________________.

F. Effect of this Consent

I UNDERSTAND THAT IF I SIGN THIS CONSENT FORM, AND

GUARDIANSHIP IS GRANTED, I WILL BE GIVING UP ALL RIGHTS AND

RESPONSIBILITIES RELATING TO THE CHILD, EXCEPT THOSE RIGHTS THAT

I HAVE KEPT UNDER ANY WRITTEN POST-ADOPTION AGREEMENT.

G. Oath and Signature

I have read carefully and understand the instructions at the

front of this consent form. I am signing this consent form

voluntarily and of my own free will.

I solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury that the

contents of this consent form are true to the best of my

knowledge, information, and belief.

___________________________	________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

Witness:

______________________________ _______________________

(Signature)	(Date)

______________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

______________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

A COPY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS WITH YOUR SIGNATURE MUST BE ATTACHED TO THIS CONSENT FORM.

IF YOU HAVE A POST-ADOPTION AGREEMENT, ATTACH A COPY TO THIS CONSENT FORM.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

ADD new Form 9-102.3, as follows:

Form 9-102.3. CONSENT OF PARENT TO A PUBLIC AGENCY ADOPTION

WITHOUT PRIOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

CONSENT OF PARENT TO ADOPTION OF ___________________________

Adoption of CINA without Prior Termination of Parental Rights

INSTRUCTIONS

These instructions and attached consent form may be used only in cases where the child is a Child in Need of Assistance and the petitioner is seeking to adopt the child without prior termination of parental rights. Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3, Part III.

The attached consent form is an important legal document. You must read all of these instructions BEFORE you sign the consent form. If you do not understand the instructions or the consent form, you should not sign it. If you are under 18 years old or if you have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand, do not sign the consent form unless you have a lawyer.

A. Right to Have This Information in a Language You Understand

You have the right to have these instructions and the consent form translated into a language that you understand. If you cannot read or understand English, you should not sign the consent form. You should have this form translated for you into a language you do understand. The translated consent form is the one you should read and decide whether or not to sign. Any translation must have an affidavit attached in which the translator states that it is a true and accurate translation of this document.

B. Right to Speak with a Lawyer

You have the right to speak with a lawyer before you decide whether or not to consent. If you are unable to afford a lawyer, you may be eligible for a lawyer through the Office of the Public Defender. You should contact the Office of the Public Defender, and ask for a lawyer to represent you in a D.S.S. (Department of Social Services) case.

You should not sign the consent form without a lawyer if you are under 18 years old or have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand this document. If you are under 18 years old or have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand this document, you are required to have a lawyer review the form with you before you can consent to the adoption. You should contact the Office of the Public Defender, or let the Juvenile Court know you need to have a lawyer appointed for you.

Even if you do not have the right to have the court appoint a lawyer for you or to be represented through the Office of the Public Defender, you have the right to speak with a lawyer you choose before you decide whether to consent.

C. Right to Adoption Counseling

You have the right to receive adoption counseling and guidance. The court may require D.S.S. or the adoptive parents to pay for the adoption counseling and guidance but does not have to do so. If you want adoption counseling or guidance, you should not complete this consent form until after you have gotten adoption counseling or guidance.

D. Post-adoption Agreement

If you have made a written agreement with the adoptive parents for future contact (known as a post-adoption agreement), a copy of that agreement must be attached to the signed consent form. If you have a post-adoption agreement, and, after the adoption, the adoptive parents do not do what they agreed to do, it will not affect the adoption or your consent to the adoption. However, if that happens, you have the right to ask a judge to make them do what they agreed to do. The judge can order you and the adoptive parents to go to mediation, order the adoptive parents to do what they agreed to do, or change the agreement if the judge decides that it is in the child's best interest.

E.	Effect of Signing the Consent Form

IF YOU SIGN THE CONSENT FORM, AND ADOPTION IS GRANTED, YOU WILL BE GIVING UP ALL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES RELATING TO THE CHILD. If you have a post-adoption agreement, you will keep only the rights the agreement gives you. Violation of the agreement will not affect your consent or the adoption.

F.	Right to Revoke Consent

If you sign the consent form and then change your mind and no longer want to consent, you have the right to revoke (cancel) the consent. If the adoption case is already filed in court, you must revoke your consent within 30 days after the date that you sign the consent form. If the adoption case has not been filed in court, you must revoke your consent within 30 days after the adoption petition is filed. The only way that you can revoke this consent is by giving a signed written revocation statement with the name, sex, and date of birth of the child (if you know it) to:

Juvenile Clerk, Circuit Court for ___________________________ at

________________________________________ (Address).

The revocation must be sent to the court, not to your social worker, lawyer, or the people adopting the child. You may deliver your written revocation of consent in person or by mail. If it is not received by the Juvenile Clerk's office within the later of 30 days after the date you sign the consent form or 30 days after the date the adoption petition is filed, it will be too late, and you will not be able to withdraw the consent or stop the adoption from being granted.

G.	Further Notice of Adoption Proceedings

A petition for adoption has been or will be filed in the Circuit Court for _____________________________. If you sign the consent form, your written consent will also be filed in the court. You have the right to be notified when the petition is filed, when any hearings are held before the adoption is granted, and if and when the adoption is granted. Any notices will be sent to the address given by you on the consent form, unless you write to the Juvenile Clerk at _________________________________ (court's address) and give the clerk your new address. You may waive (give up) your right to notice if you wish to do so. Even if you give up your right to notice, someone from the court may contact you if further information is needed.

H.	Compensation

Under Maryland law, you are not allowed to charge or receive money or compensation of any kind for the placement for adoption of your child or for your agreement to the adoptive parent having custody of your child, except that reasonable and customary charges or fees for adoption counseling, hospital, legal, or medical services may be paid.

I.	Access to Birth and Adoption Records

When your child is at least 21 years old, your child, your child's other parent, or you may apply to the Maryland Secretary of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for access to certain birth and adoption records. If you do not want information about you to be disclosed (given) to that person, you have the right to prevent disclosure by filing a disclosure veto. Attached to this document is a copy of the form that you may use if you want to file a disclosure veto.

J.	Adoption Search, Contact and Reunion Services

When your child is at least 21 years old, your child, your child's other parent or siblings, or you may apply to the Director of the Social Services Administration of the Maryland Department of Human Resources for adoption search, contact, and reunion services.

K.	Rights under the Indian Child Welfare Act

If you or your child are members of or are eligible for membership in an Indian tribe, as defined by federal law, you have special legal rights under the Indian Child Welfare Act. You should not sign this consent form if you believe this may apply to you. You should tell the person requesting the consent or the court that you believe that your child's case should be handled under the Indian Child Welfare Act.

L. Authorization for Access to Medical and Mental Health Records

You may be asked to sign a separate form (authorization) to allow the adoptive parents to get your child's medical and mental health records or your medical and mental health records. If you agree to allow access to this information, the records given to the adoptive parents will not include identifying information about you unless identifying information was previously exchanged by agreement.

M.	Signature, Witness, and Copy

If you decide to complete and sign the consent form, you must have a witness present when you sign it. The witness must be someone 18 or older and should not be the child or the child's other parent. You must complete and sign the form with a pen and print or type in your name, address, and telephone number. The witness also must sign the form and print or type in the witness' name, address, and telephone number in the blanks on the last page.

If you have a post-adoption agreement, you must attach a copy to the signed consent form.

You have the right to receive a copy of the signed consent form.

STOP HERE IF YOU DID NOT UNDERSTAND SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ OR IF YOU WANT TO SPEAK WITH A LAWYER OR GET ADOPTION COUNSELING BEFORE YOU DECIDE IF YOU WANT TO SIGN THE CONSENT FORM.

If you wish to sign the consent form, you must also sign here to verify that you read these instructions and understood them:

___________________________________ __________________________

(Signature) (Date)

You must attach a copy of these signed instructions to the signed consent form.

CONSENT OF PARENT TO ADOPTION OF ______________________

Adoption of CINA without PRIOR Termination of Parental Rights

Use a pen to fill out this form. You must complete each section.

A. Identifying Information

1. Language.

I understand English, or this consent form has been

translated into _____________________________________, a language

that I understand.

2. Name.

My name is ____________________________________________.

3. Age.

My date of birth is ___________________________________.

4. Child.

The child who is the subject of this consent was born on

_________________ at _________________________________________ ,

(date)	(name of hospital or address of birthplace)

in ____________________________________________________________ .

(city, state, and county of birth)

5. Status as Parent. Check all that apply.

(a) I am

[ ] the mother of the child

[ ] the father of the child

[ ] alleged to be the father of the child

(b) I was married to the mother of the child

[ ] at the time of conception of the child

[ ] at the time the child was born.

B. Right to Speak with a Lawyer

I WANT TO COMPLETE THIS CONSENT FORM BECAUSE:

Check one of the following:

[ ]	I already have spoken with a lawyer whose name and

telephone number are _________________________________

______________________________________________________.

I have read the instructions at the front of this form,

and I am ready to consent to the adoption.

OR

[ ]	I am at least 18 years old and am able to understand

this document. I have read the instructions at the

front of this form, and I do not want to speak with a

lawyer before I consent to the adoption.

C. Right to Counseling and Guidance

I WANT TO COMPLETE THIS CONSENT FORM BECAUSE:

Check one of the following:

[ ] I have already spoken with a counselor. I have read

the instructions at the front of this form, and I am

ready to consent to the adoption.

OR

[ ] I do not want to speak with a counselor. I have read

the instructions at the front of this form, and I am

ready to consent to the adoption.

D. Consent

I voluntarily and of my own free will consent to the ending

(termination) of my rights as parent to and to the adoption of my

child, ______________________________, by a person(s) known to me

as _____________________________________________________________.

E. Notice

Check one of the following:

[ ] I give up (waive) the right to any further notice of

the adoption case.

OR

[ ] I want to be notified when the adoption case is filed,

of any hearings, and if and when my child is adopted.

F. Revocation Rights

I understand that if I change my mind and no longer consent

to the adoption, I have the right to revoke this consent within

the later of 30 days after I sign this form or 30 days after the

adoption case is filed in court. I understand that the only way

that I can revoke this consent is by giving a signed written

revocation statement to the Juvenile Clerk, Circuit Court for

__________________________ at __________________________________.

G. Effect of this Consent

I UNDERSTAND THAT IF I SIGN THIS CONSENT FORM, AND ADOPTION

IS GRANTED, I WILL BE GIVING UP ALL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

RELATING TO THE CHILD, EXCEPT THOSE RIGHTS THAT I HAVE KEPT UNDER

ANY WRITTEN POST-ADOPTION AGREEMENT.

H. Oath and Signature

I have read carefully and understand the instructions in

front of this consent form. I am signing this consent form

voluntarily and of my own free will.

I solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury that the

contents of this consent form are true to the best of my

knowledge, information, and belief.

___________________________	________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

Witness:

________________________________	________________________

(Signature)	(Date)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

A COPY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS WITH YOUR SIGNATURE MUST BE ATTACHED TO THIS CONSENT FORM.

IF YOU HAVE A POST-ADOPTION AGREEMENT, ATTACH A COPY TO THIS CONSENT FORM.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

ADD new Form 9-102.4, as follows:

Form 9-102.4. CONSENT OF PARENT TO AN INDEPENDENT ADOPTION WITH

TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

CONSENT OF PARENT TO ADOPTION OF ____________________________

Independent Adoption with Termination of Parental Rights

INSTRUCTIONS

These instructions and attached consent form may be used only in independent adoptions, not those that are arranged by an adoption agency. This form should only be used for a parent whose parental rights are being terminated. It should not be used for a parent who is retaining parental rights, for example, a custodial parent in a step-parent adoption. Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3B.

The attached consent form is an important legal document. You must read all of these instructions BEFORE you sign the consent form. If you do not understand the instructions or the consent form, you should not sign it. If you are under 18 years old or if you have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand, do not sign the consent form unless you have a lawyer.

A. Right to Have This Information in a Language You Understand

You have the right to have these instructions and the consent form translated into a language that you understand. If you cannot read or understand English, you should not sign the consent form. You should have this form translated for you into a language you do understand. The translated consent form is the one you should read and decide whether or not to sign. Any translation must have an affidavit attached in which the translator states that it is a true and accurate translation of this document.

B. Right to Speak with a Lawyer

You have the right to speak with a lawyer before you decide whether or not to consent.

You should not sign the consent form without a lawyer if you are under 18 years old or have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand this document. If you are under 18 years old or have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand this document, you are required to have a lawyer review the form with you before you can consent to the adoption.

Even if you are not required to have a lawyer, you have the right to speak with a lawyer you choose before you decide whether to consent.

You can ask the court to require the people adopting your child to pay the costs of the lawyer. The judge does not have to grant that request but may do so.

C. Right to Adoption Counseling

You have the right to receive adoption counseling and guidance. The court may require the adoptive parents to pay for the adoption counseling and guidance but does not have to do so. If you want adoption counseling or guidance, you should not complete this consent form until after you have gotten adoption counseling or guidance.

D. Post-adoption Agreement

If you have made a written agreement with the adoptive parents for future contact (known as a post-adoption agreement), a copy of that agreement must be attached to the signed consent form. If you have a post-adoption agreement, and, after the adoption, the adoptive parents do not do what they agreed to do, it will not affect the adoption or your consent to the adoption. However, if that happens, you have the right to ask a judge to make them do what they agreed to do. The judge can order you and the adoptive parents to go to mediation, order the adoptive parents to do what they agreed to do, or change the agreement if the judge decides that it is in the child's best interest.

E. Effect of Signing the Consent Form

IF YOU SIGN THE CONSENT FORM, AND ADOPTION IS GRANTED, YOU WILL BE GIVING UP ALL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES RELATING TO THE CHILD. If you have a post-adoption agreement, you will keep only the rights the agreement gives you. Violation of the agreement will not affect your consent or the adoption.

F. Right to Revoke Consent

If you sign the consent form and then change your mind and no longer want to consent, you have the right to revoke (cancel) the consent within 30 days after the date that you sign the consent form. The only way that you can revoke this consent is by giving a signed written revocation statement with the name, sex, and date of birth of the child (if you know it) to:

Adoption Clerk, Circuit Court for ___________________________, at

__________________________________________________(Address).

The revocation must be sent to the court, not to the lawyers or the people adopting the child. You may deliver your written revocation of consent in person or by mail. If it is not received by the Adoption Clerk's office within 30 days after the date you signed the consent form, it will be too late, and you will not be able to withdraw the consent or stop the adoption from being granted.

If you sign this consent form, and then revoke your consent, and then decide to consent to the adoption again, you will not be able to revoke your second consent if you give your second consent in court within one year of your revocation of this consent.

G. Further Notice of Adoption Proceedings

A petition for adoption has been or will be filed in the Circuit Court for _________________________. If you sign the consent form, your written consent will also be filed in the court. You have the right to be notified when the petition is filed, when any hearings are held before the adoption is granted, and if and when the adoption is granted. Any notices will be sent to the address given by you on the consent form, unless you write to the Adoption Clerk at _________________________________ (court's address) and give the clerk your new address. You may waive (give up) your right to notice if you wish to do so. Even if you give up your right to notice, someone from the court may contact you if further information is needed.

H. Compensation

Under Maryland law, you are not allowed to charge or receive money or compensation of any kind for the placement for adoption of your child or for your agreement to the adoptive parent having custody of your child, except that reasonable and customary charges or fees for adoption counseling, hospital, legal, or medical services may be paid.

I. Access to Birth and Adoption Records

When your child is at least 21 years old, your child, your child's other parent, or you may apply to the Maryland Secretary of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for access to certain birth and adoption records. If you do not want information about you to be disclosed (given) to that person, you have the right to prevent disclosure by filing a disclosure veto. Attached to this document is a copy of the form that you may use if you want to file a disclosure veto.

J. Adoption Search, Contact, and Reunion Services

When your child is at least 21 years old, your child, your child's other parent or siblings, or you may apply to the Director of the Social Services Administration of the Maryland Department of Human Resources for adoption search, contact, and reunion services.

K. Rights under the Indian Child Welfare Act

If you or your child are members of or are eligible for membership in an Indian tribe, as defined by federal law, you have special legal rights under the Indian Child Welfare Act. You should not sign this consent form if you believe this may apply to you. You should tell the person requesting the consent or the court that you believe that your child's case should be handled under the Indian Child Welfare Act.

L. Authorization for Access to Medical and Mental Health Records

You may be asked to sign a separate form (authorization) to allow the adoptive parents to get your child's medical and mental health records or your medical and mental health records. If you agree to allow access to this information, the records given to the adoptive parents will not include identifying information about you unless identifying information was previously exchanged by agreement.

M.	Signature, Witness, and Copy

If you decide to complete and sign the consent form, you must have a witness present when you sign it. The witness must be someone 18 or older and should not be the child or the child's other parent. You must complete and sign the form with a pen and print or type in your name, address, and telephone number. The witness also must sign the form and print or type in the witness' name, address, and telephone number in the blanks on the last page.

If you have a post-adoption agreement, you must attach a copy to the signed consent form.

You have the right to receive a copy of the signed consent form.

STOP HERE IF YOU DID NOT UNDERSTAND SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ OR IF YOU WANT TO SPEAK WITH A LAWYER OR GET ADOPTION COUNSELING BEFORE YOU DECIDE IF YOU WANT TO SIGN THE CONSENT FORM.

If you wish to sign the consent form, you must also sign here to verify that you read these instructions and understand them:

_________________________________ ____________________________

(Signature) (Date)

You must attach a copy of these signed instructions to the signed consent form.

CONSENT TO INDEPENDENT ADOPTION OF

____________________________________________

WITH TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

Use a pen to fill out this form. You must complete each section.

A. Identifying Information

1. Language.

I understand English, or this consent form has been

translated into ______________________________________________, a

language that I understand.

2. Name.

My name is ____________________________________________.

3. Age.

My date of birth is ___________________________________.

4. Child.

The child who is the subject of this consent was born on

__________________ at __________________________________________,

(date)	(name of hospital or address of birthplace)

in ____________________________________________________________ .

(city, state, and county of birth)

5. Status as Parent. Check all that apply.

(a) I am

[ ] the mother of the child

[ ] the father of the child

[ ] alleged to be the father of the child

(b) I was married to the mother of the child

[ ] at the time of conception of the child

[ ] at the time the child was born.

B. Right to Speak with a Lawyer

I WANT TO COMPLETE THIS CONSENT FORM BECAUSE:

Check one of the following:

[ ]	I already have spoken with a lawyer whose name and

telephone number are _________________________________

___________________________________________________________. I

have read the instructions at the front of this form, and I am

ready to consent to the adoption.

OR

[ ]	I am at least 18 years old and am able to understand

this document. I have read the instructions at the

front of this form, and I do not want to speak with a

lawyer before I consent to the adoption.

C. Right to Counseling and Guidance

I WANT TO COMPLETE THIS CONSENT FORM BECAUSE:

Check one of the following:

[ ] I have already spoken with a counselor. I have read

the instructions at the front of this form, and I am

ready to consent to the adoption.

OR

[ ] I do not want to speak with a counselor. I have read

the instructions at the front of this form, and I am

ready to consent to the adoption.

D. Consent

I voluntarily and of my own free will consent to the ending

(termination) of my rights as parent to and to the adoption of my

child, ____________________________________________, by person(s)

known to me as _________________________________________________.

I also agree that such person(s) shall have temporary custody of

the child until the completion of the adoption.

E. Notice

Check one of the following:

[ ] I give up (waive) the right to any further notice of

the adoption case.

OR

[ ] I want to be notified when the adoption case is filed,

of any hearings and if and when my child is adopted.

F. Revocation Rights

I understand that if I change my mind and no longer consent

to the adoption, I have the right to revoke this consent within

30 days after the date that I signed this consent form. I

understand that the only way that I can revoke this consent is by

giving a signed written revocation to the Adoption Clerk, Circuit

Court for ___________________________________________________ at

_______________________________________________________________.

G. Effect of this Consent

I UNDERSTAND THAT IF I SIGN THIS CONSENT FORM, AND ADOPTION

IS GRANTED, I WILL BE GIVING UP ALL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

RELATING TO THE CHILD, EXCEPT THOSE RIGHTS THAT I HAVE KEPT UNDER

ANY WRITTEN POST-ADOPTION AGREEMENT.

H.	Oath and Signature

I have read carefully and understand the instructions in

front of this consent form. I am signing this consent form

voluntarily and of my own free will.

I solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury that the

contents of this consent form are true to the best of my

knowledge, information, and belief.

___________________________	________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

Witness:

________________________________	________________________

(Signature)	(Date)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

________________________________

(Telephone Number)

A COPY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS WITH YOUR SIGNATURE MUST BE ATTACHED TO THIS CONSENT.

IF YOU HAVE A POST-ADOPTION AGREEMENT, ATTACH A COPY TO THIS CONSENT FORM.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

ADD new Form 9-102.5, as follows:

Form 9-102.5. CONSENT OF PARENT TO AN INDEPENDENT ADOPTION

WITHOUT TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

CONSENT OF PARENT TO ADOPTION OF __________________________

Independent Adoption without Termination of Parental Rights

INSTRUCTIONS

These instructions and attached consent form may be used only in independent adoptions, not those that are arranged by an adoption agency. This form should only be used for a parent whose parental rights are not being terminated. It should be used for a parent who is retaining parental rights, for example, a custodial parent in a step-parent adoption. Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3B.

The attached consent form is an important legal document. You must read all of these instructions BEFORE you sign the consent form. If you do not understand the instructions or the consent form, you should not sign it. If you are under 18

years old or if you have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand, do not sign the consent form unless you have a lawyer.

A. Right to Have This Information in a Language You Understand

You have the right to have these instructions and the

consent form translated into a language that you understand. If

you cannot read or understand English, you should not sign the

consent form. You should have this form translated for you into

a language you do understand. The translated consent form is the one you should read and decide whether or not to sign. Any translation must have an affidavit attached in which the translator states that it is a true and accurate translation of this document.

B. Right to Speak with a Lawyer

You have the right to speak with a lawyer before you decide whether or not to consent.

You should not sign the consent form without a lawyer if you are under 18 years old or have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand this document. If you are

under 18 years old or have a disability that makes it difficult for you to understand this document, you are required to have a lawyer review the form with you before you can consent to the adoption.

Even if you are not required to have a lawyer, you have the right to speak with a lawyer you choose before you decide whether to consent.

C. Right to Adoption Counseling

You have the right to receive adoption counseling and guidance. If you want adoption counseling or guidance, you should not complete this consent form until after you have

gotten adoption counseling or guidance.

D. Effect of Signing the Consent Form

IF YOU SIGN THE CONSENT FORM, YOU WILL NOT BE GIVING UP ANY RIGHTS OR RESPONSIBILITIES RELATING TO THE CHILD.

E. Right to Revoke Consent

If you sign the consent form and then change your mind and no longer want to consent, you have the right to revoke (cancel) the consent within 30 days after the date that you sign the consent form. The only way that you can revoke this consent is by giving a signed written revocation statement with the name, sex, and date of birth of the child (if you know it) to:

Adoption Clerk, Circuit Court for __________________________, at

_____________________________________________________(Address).

The revocation must be sent to the court, not to the lawyers or the people adopting the child. You may deliver your written revocation of consent in person or by mail. If it is not received by the Adoption Clerk's office within 30 days after the date you signed the consent form, it will be too late, and you will not be able to withdraw the consent or stop the adoption from being granted.

If you sign this consent form, and then revoke your consent, and then decide to consent to the adoption again, you will not be able to revoke your second consent if you give your second consent in court within one year of your revocation of this consent.

G.	Further Notice of Adoption Proceedings

A petition for adoption has been or will be filed in the

Circuit Court for _________________________________. If you sign

the consent form, your written consent will also be filed in the

court. You have the right to be notified when the petition is

filed, when any hearings are held before the adoption is granted,

and if and when the adoption is granted. Any notices will be

sent to the address given by you on the consent form, unless you

write to the Adoption Clerk at ________________________________

(court's address) and give the clerk your new address. You may

waive (give up) your right to notice if you wish to do so. Even

if you give up your right to notice, someone from the court may

contact you if further information is needed.

H. Compensation

Under Maryland law, you are not allowed to charge or receive

money or compensation of any kind for the placement for adoption

of your child or for your agreement to the adoptive parent having

custody of your child, except that reasonable and customary

charges or fees for adoption counseling, hospital, legal, or

medical services may be paid.

I. Access to Birth and Adoption Records

When your child is at least 21 years old, your child, your

child's other parent, or you may apply to the Maryland Secretary

of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for access to

certain birth and adoption records. If you do not want

information about you to be disclosed (given) to that person, you

have the right to prevent disclosure by filing a disclosure veto.

Attached to this document is a copy of the form that you may use

if you want to file a disclosure veto.

J. Adoption Search, Contact, and Reunion Services

When your child is at least 21 years old, your child, your

child's other parent or siblings, or you may apply to the

Director of the Social Services Administration of the Maryland

Department of Human Resources for adoption search, contact, and

reunion services.

K. Rights under the Indian Child Welfare Act

If you or your child are members of or are eligible for

membership in an Indian tribe, as defined by federal law, you

have special legal rights under the Indian Child Welfare Act.

You should not sign this consent form if you believe this may

apply to you. You should tell the person requesting the consent

or the court that you believe that your child's case should be

handled under the Indian Child Welfare Act.

L. Signature, Witness, and Copy

If you decide to complete and sign the consent form, you must have a witness present when you sign it. The witness must

be someone 18 or older and should not be the child or the child's

other parent. You must complete and sign the form with a pen and

print or type in your name, address, and telephone number. The witness also must sign the form and print or type in the witness' name, address, and telephone number in the blanks on the last page.

If you have a post-adoption agreement, you must attach a

copy to the signed consent form.

You have the right to receive a copy of the signed consent

form.

STOP HERE IF YOU DID NOT UNDERSTAND SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ OR IF

YOU WANT TO SPEAK WITH A LAWYER OR GET ADOPTION COUNSELING BEFORE

YOU DECIDE IF YOU WANT TO SIGN THE CONSENT FORM.

If you wish to sign the consent form, you must also sign here to verify that you read these instructions and understand them:

__________________________________ ___________________________

(Signature) (Date)

You must attach a copy of these signed instructions to the signed consent form.

CONSENT TO INDEPENDENT ADOPTION

WITHOUT TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

Use a pen to fill out this form. You must complete each section.

A. Identifying Information

1. Language.

I understand English, or this consent form has been

translated into _____________________________________, a language

that I understand.

2. Name.

My name is ____________________________________________.

3. Age.

My date of birth is ___________________________________.

4. Child.

The child who is the subject of this consent was born on

_________________ at _________________________________________ ,

(name of hospital or address of birthplace)

in _____________________________________________________________.

(city, state, and county of birth)

5. Status as Parent. Check all that apply.

(a) I am

[ ] the mother of the child

[ ] the father of the child

[ ] alleged to be the father of the child

(b) I was married to the mother of the child

[ ] at the time of conception of the child

[ ] at the time the child was born.

B. Right to Speak with a Lawyer

I WANT TO COMPLETE THIS CONSENT FORM BECAUSE:

Check one of the following:

[ ]	I already have spoken with a lawyer whose name and

telephone number are ________________________________

__________________________________________________. I

have read the instructions at the front of this form,

and I am ready to consent to the adoption.

OR

[ ]	I am at least 18 years old and am able to understand

this document. I have read the instructions at the

front of this form, and I do not want to speak with a

lawyer before I consent to the adoption.

C.	Right to Counseling and Guidance

I WANT TO COMPLETE THIS CONSENT FORM BECAUSE:

Check one of the following:

[ ] I have already spoken with a counselor. I have read

the instructions at the front of this form, and I am

ready to consent to the adoption.

OR

[ ] I do not want to speak with a counselor. I have read

the instructions at the front of this form, and I am

ready to consent to the adoption.

D. Consent

I voluntarily and of my own free will consent to the

adoption of my child, ______________________________________, by

______________________________________________________________.

E.	Notice

Check one of the following:

[ ] I give up (waive) the right to any further notice of

the adoption case.

OR

[ ] I want to be notified when the adoption case is filed,

of any hearings, and if and when my child is adopted.

F.	Revocation Rights

I understand that if I change my mind and no longer consent

to the adoption, I have the right to revoke this consent within

30 days after the date that I signed this consent form. I

understand that the only way that I can revoke this consent is by

giving a signed written revocation statement to the Adoption

Clerk, Circuit Court for ____________________________________ at

______________________________________________________________.

G. Effect of this Consent

I UNDERSTAND THAT IF I SIGN THIS CONSENT FORM, I WILL NOT BE

GIVING UP ANY RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES RELATING TO THE CHILD.

H. Oath and Signature

I have read carefully and understand the instructions at the

front of this consent form. I am signing this consent form

voluntarily and of my own free will.

I solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury that the

contents of this consent form are true to the best of my

knowledge, information, and belief.

___________________________	________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

Witness:

______________________________	________________________

(Signature)	(Date)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

A COPY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS WITH YOUR SIGNATURE MUST BE ATTACHED TO THE CONSENT FORM.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

ADD new Form 9-102.6, as follows:

Form 9-102.6. CONSENT OF CHILD TO A PUBLIC AGENCY ADOPTION OR

PRIVATE AGENCY ADOPTION

CONSENT OF ______________________________ TO ADOPTION

(Name of Child)

INSTRUCTIONS

This consent form may be completed only after being reviewed

with an attorney and should be completed only by a child who is

in the custody of or under the guardianship of the Department of

Social Services or under the guardianship of a private child

placement agency. Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3

or 3A.

1. I understand English, or this consent form has been

translated into ________________________________, a language that

I understand.

2. My name is ___________________________________________.

3. My date of birth is ___________________________. I am

_____ years old.

4. I understand that _________________________________ have

asked to adopt me.

5.	I have a lawyer whose name and telephone number are

_______________________________________________. I have met with

my lawyer who has gone over this consent form with me and

explained to me what it means to be adopted.

6. I understand that if I agree to be adopted, and I am

adopted, ________________________________ will become my parents,

and I will become their child.

7. I understand that I do not have to agree to be adopted.

If I do not agree, the judge cannot approve the adoption. If the

adoption is not approved, and I am not adopted by someone else, a

judge will decide where I will live.

8. I voluntarily and of my own free will agree to being

adopted by _______________________________________. I understand

that if they are not able to complete the adoption, this consent

form will no longer be valid and can no longer be used.

9. I understand that if I change my mind and do not want

to be adopted, I must tell my lawyer, my social worker, or the

judge immediately. I will have to sign a written statement or

tell the judge in court that I do not want to be adopted before

the adoption order is signed by a judge. This is called a

revocation of consent.

10. I understand that when I am at least 21 years old, my

birth parents or I may apply to the Secretary of the Maryland

Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to get certain birth and

adoption records. If I do not want information about me to be

given to my birth parents, I have the right to file a form called

a "disclosure veto." I have been given a form that I may use if

I want to file a disclosure veto.

11. I understand that when I am at least 21 years old, my

birth parents, my siblings, or I may apply to the Director of the

Social Services Administration of the Maryland Department of

Human Resources for adoption search, contact, and reunion

services.

12. I have read this consent form or have had it read and

explained to me in a language that I understand. I understand

the meaning of this consent form.

13. I have not been promised anything in return for

agreeing to be adopted.

14. I have signed this consent form of my own free will.

15. I understand that I will be given a copy of this signed

consent form.

I solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury that the

contents of this consent to adoption form are true to the best of

my knowledge, information, and belief.

___________________________	________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

_________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

Witness:

_________________________	_________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

_________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

ADD new Form 9-102.7, as follows:

Form 9-102.7. CONSENT OF CHILD TO AN INDEPENDENT ADOPTION

CONSENT OF ___________________________ TO INDEPENDENT ADOPTION

(Name of Child)

INSTRUCTIONS

This consent form should be completed only by a child who is being adopted in an independent adoption that is not being

arranged by an adoption or child placement agency. Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 3B.

The attached consent form is an important legal document. You must read all of these instructions BEFORE you sign the form and agree to being adopted. If you do not understand the instructions or the consent form, you should not sign it. If you

have a disability that makes it hard for you to understand this form, do not complete this consent form unless you have a lawyer.

A. Right to Have This Information in a Language You Understand

You have the right to have these instructions and the

consent form translated into a language that you understand. If

you cannot read or understand English, you should not sign this

consent form.

B. Right to Speak with a Lawyer

If you have a disability that makes it hard for you to

understand this consent form, do not complete this form because

you must have a lawyer before you may complete this form and

agree to be adopted.

Even if you do not have a problem understanding this consent

form, you have the right to speak with a lawyer before you agree

to be adopted. If you want to speak with a lawyer, do not

complete this form until you have spoken with a lawyer.

C. What Happens if You Sign the Consent Form

If you sign the consent form, the people who want to adopt

you will file an adoption case in the Circuit Court for ___________________________. There probably will be a court hearing about your adoption. During that hearing, the judge probably will ask you if you want to be adopted. The judge will make the final decision about your adoption.

D. Right to Revoke Consent

If you sign this consent form and then change your mind and

decide that you do not want to be adopted, you may take back or

"revoke" your consent. However, you must revoke your consent

before the judge signs the adoption order, and you must revoke it

either in writing or in court in front of the judge. If you

decide you do not want to be adopted, you should write the judge

at _____________________________________________Circuit Court at

______________________________________________________ (address)

immediately, or tell the judge before or at the beginning of your

adoption hearing.

STOP HERE IF YOU DID NOT UNDERSTAND SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ

OR IF YOU WANT TO SPEAK WITH A LAWYER BEFORE YOU DECIDE IF YOU

WANT TO SIGN THE CONSENT FORM.

If you wish to sign the consent form, you must also sign here to verify that you read these instructions and understand them:

__________________________________ ___________________________

(Signature) (Date)

You must attach a copy of these signed instructions to the signed consent form.

CONSENT OF ______________________________ TO INDEPENDENT ADOPTION

(Name of Child)

Use a pen to fill out this form. If you decide to sign the consent form, you must have a witness present when you sign it. The witness must be someone 18 or older and should not be your parent or the person who is adopting you. You must fill in all the blanks, sign the form, and print your name, address, and telephone number, and the witness must sign and print the witness' name, address, and telephone number in the blanks on the last page.

1. I understand English, or this consent form has been

translated into ________________________________, a language that

I understand.

2. My name is ___________________________________________.

3. My date of birth is ___________________________. I am

_____ years old.

4. I understand that _____________________________________

have asked to adopt me.

5.	Check one:

[ ] I have a lawyer whose name and telephone number

are ___________________________________________.

I have met with my lawyer who has gone over this

consent form with me and explained to me what it

means to be adopted. I want to agree to be

adopted.

OR

[ ] I do not have a lawyer. I have read the

instructions in the front of this form, and I

understand this consent form. I do not want to

speak with a lawyer before I complete this form

and agree to be adopted.

6. I understand that if I agree to be adopted, and I am

adopted, ________________________________________ will become my

parents, and I will become their child.

7. I understand that if I agree to be adopted, and I am

adopted, _________________________________________ will no longer

be my parents.

8. I understand that I do not have to agree to be adopted.

If I do not agree, the court cannot approve the adoption.

9. I voluntarily and of my own free will agree to being

adopted by _______________________________________. I understand

that if they are not able to complete the adoption, this consent

form will no longer be valid and can no longer be used.

10. I understand that if I change my mind and do not want

to be adopted, I must tell the judge immediately. I will have to

sign a written statement or tell the judge in court that I do not

want to be adopted before the adoption order is signed.

11. I understand that when I am at least 21 years old, my

birth parents or I may apply to the Secretary of the Maryland

Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to get certain birth and

adoption records. If I do not want information about me to be

given to my birth parents, I have the right to file a form called

a "disclosure veto." I have been given a form that I may use if

I want to file a disclosure veto.

12. I understand that when I am at least 21 years old, my

birth parents, my siblings, or I may apply to the Director of the

Social Services Administration of the Maryland Department of

Human Resources for adoption search, contact, and reunion

services.

13. I have read this consent form or have had it read and

explained to me in a language that I understand. I understand

the meaning of this consent form.

14. I have not been promised anything in return for

agreeing to be adopted.

15. I have signed this consent form of my own free will.

16. I understand that I will be given a copy of this signed

consent form.

I solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury that the

contents of this consent to adoption form are true to the best of

my knowledge, information, and belief.

___________________________	________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

_________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

Witness:

________________________	_________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

_________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

_________________________________

(Telephone Number)

A COPY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS WITH YOUR SIGNATURE MUST BE ATTACHED TO THIS CONSENT FORM.

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

ADD new Form 9-102.8, as follows:

Form 9-102.8. ATTORNEY AFFIDAVIT AS TO CONSENT OF A PARENT TO A

PUBLIC AGENCY GUARDIANSHIP OR PRIVATE AGENCY GUARDIANSHIP

Affidavit by Attorney as to Consent of

________________________ (parent) to Guardianship

with the Right to Consent to Adoption ("Guardianship")

by _________________ (agency) of _____________________ (child)

1. I am the attorney representing ________________________,

a parent of ______________________________, the child who is the

subject of the consent.

2. The parent, at the time of the signing of the consent,

was ___ years old. The parent's date of birth is ______________.

3. (Check one of the following)

[ ] The parent is not disabled or is disabled but the

disability does not affect the parent's ability to

understand the meaning of the consent to

guardianship.

OR

[ ] The parent is a minor or has a disability that

could affect the parent's ability to understand

the meaning of the consent to guardianship. The

disability is __________________________________

________________________________________________.

Despite the parent's age or disability, I believe

that the parent understood the meaning of

consenting to guardianship. The following

additional steps were taken to ensure that

the parent understood the meaning of the consent

form prior to signing it: _______________________

________________________________________________.

4. The parent understands English, or the consent form that

the parent signed was translated into _______________, a language

that the parent understands.

5. I have explained to the parent that ____________________

(agency) has filed or plans to file a case to ask the court to

grant it guardianship of the child with the right to consent to

adoption by:

Check one of the following:

[ ] a family approved by the agency.

OR

[ ] __________________________ (name by which parent knows

adoptive parent).

6. I reviewed the consent form thoroughly with the parent,

and I believe that the parent desires to consent to the

guardianship and has signed the consent form knowingly and

voluntarily and not due to duress or coercion.

I solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury that the

contents of this affidavit are true to the best of my knowledge,

information, and belief.

___________________________	________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

________________________________

(Telephone Number)

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

ADD new Form 9-102.9, as follows:

Form 9-102.9. ATTORNEY AFFIDAVIT AS TO CONSENT OF A PARENT TO

ADOPTION

Affidavit by Attorney as to Consent of

________________________________________ (parent)

to Adoption of ___________________________________________

1. I am the attorney representing _________________________

____________________, a parent of ______________________________,

the child who is the subject of the consent.

2. The parent, at the time of the signing of the consent,

was _____ years old. The parent's date of birth is

____________________________________.

3. (Check one of the following)

[ ] The parent is not disabled or is disabled but

the disability does not affect the parent's

ability to understand the meaning of the consent

to adoption.

OR

[ ]	The parent is a minor or has a disability that

could affect the parent's ability to understand

the meaning of the consent to adoption. The

disability is _________________________________

_______________________________________________.

Despite the parent's age or disability, I

believe that the parent understood the meaning

of consenting to adoption. The following

additional steps were taken to ensure that the

parent understood the meaning of the consent

form prior to signing it: _____________________

_______________________________________________.

4. The parent understands English, or the consent form

that the parent signed was translated into _____________________,

a language that the parent understands.

5. I have explained to the parent that ____________________

(name by which parent knows adoptive parent) has filed or plans

to file a case to ask the court to permit that person to adopt

the parent's child.

6. I reviewed the consent form thoroughly with the parent,

and I believe that the parent desires to consent to the adoption

and has signed the consent form knowingly and voluntarily and not

due to duress or coercion.

I solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury that the

contents of this affidavit are true to the best of my knowledge,

information, and belief.

___________________________	________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

________________________________

(Telephone Number)

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 9 - FAMILY LAW ACTIONS

FORMS FOR GUARDIANSHIPS THAT TERMINATE	PARENTAL

RIGHTS AND ADOPTIONS

ADD new Form 9-102.10, as follows:

Form 9-102.10. ATTORNEY AFFIDAVIT AS TO CONSENT OF A CHILD TO

ADOPTION

Affidavit by Attorney as to Consent of

____________________________________ (Child) to Adoption

1. I am the attorney representing ________________________,

the individual who is the subject of this adoption proceeding

("the child").

2. The child, at the time of the signing of the consent

form, was _____ years old. The child's date of birth is

__________________________________. To the best of my knowledge,

the child is not an Indian child subject to the provisions of the

Indian Child Welfare Act.

3. (Check one of the following)

[ ] The child is not disabled or is disabled but the

disability would not affect the child's ability

to understand the meaning of consenting to

adoption.

OR

[ ] The child has a disability that could affect the

child's ability to understand the meaning of

consenting to adoption. The disability is

________________________________________________.

Despite the child's disability, I believe that

the child understands the meaning of the

consenting to adoption. The following additional

steps were taken to ensure that the child

understood the meaning of the consent form prior

to signing it: _________________________________

________________________________________________.

4. The child understands English, or the consent that the

child signed has been translated into __________________________,

a language that the child understands.

5. I have explained to the child that _____________________

have asked the court to be permitted to adopt the child, that the

child has the right to decide whether or not the child wants to

be adopted, and the possible options if the adoption is not

approved.

6. I reviewed the consent form thoroughly with the child,

and I believe that the child agrees to the adoption and has

signed the consent form knowingly and voluntarily and not due to

duress or coercion.

I solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury that the

contents of this affidavit are true to the best of my knowledge,

information, and belief.

___________________________	________________________________

(Date)	(Signature)

________________________________

(Printed Name)

________________________________

(Address)

________________________________

(City, State, Zip Code)

________________________________

(Telephone Number)

MARYLAND RULES OF PROCEDURE

TITLE 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS

CHAPTER 100 - APPLICABILITY AND CITATION

AMEND Rule 1-101 to conform to the proposed revisions to the

Rules in Title 9, Chapter 100, as follows:

Rule 1-101. APPLICABILITY

. . .

(i) Title 9

Title 9 applies to proceedings under Code, Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitles 3 (Guardianship to and Adoption through Local Department), 3A (Private Agency Guardianship and Adoption), and 3B (Independent Adoption) and proceedings relating to divorce, annulment, alimony, child support, and child custody and visitation.

(j) Title 10

Title 10 applies to fiduciary matters in the courts of this State, except for matters relating to the settlement of decedents' estates governed by Title 6 of these Rules and guardianships governed by Title 9 of these Rules.

. . .