Maryland Family Law Section 5-1026

      (a)      The court shall hear the complaint without a jury.

      (b)      Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, proceedings under this subtitle shall be treated in accordance with the laws, rules, and practice that relate to trials in other civil cases.

      (c)      In a trial under this subtitle, no comment on or reference to an alleged father's failure to testify may be made or permitted.