CHILD CUSTODY LAW IN MARYLAND

 Posted on May 14, 2025 in Child Custody

Big changes to Child Custody in Maryland are coming!

Governor Wes Moore just implemented House Bill 1911, which will allow the Courts much more latitude in getting child custody cases right.  Why does this matter? It matters because this Bill gives the Courts greater authority, which means overall fairness in determining custody. The factors the Court can now consider include: the child’s physical and emotional needs, stability, relationships with parents and siblings, parental communication and cooperation, the impact of conflict, and the child’s preference (if appropriate).

Courts must now explain their reasoning, either on the record or in writing, ensuring families understand how decisions are made.

So, for those of you dealing with parental alienation, parental gatekeeping, parents keeping children away from the other parent, and parents who play games, this new Bill should help because it allows the Courts to consider a vast scope of things when determining custody. I have attached the Bill, below.

Sharon

HB1191

Title

Family Law - Child Custody - Determinations

Status

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 483

Analysis

Fiscal and Policy Note

Synopsis Authorizing the court, in determining legal and physical custody in certain child custody proceedings, to consider certain factors; and authorizing the court to modify a child custody or visitation order if the court determines that there has been a material change in circumstances since the issuance of the order that related to the needs of the child or the ability of the parents to meet those needs and that modifying the order is in the best interests of the child.