2013 Maryland Code
FAMILY LAW
§ 5-3A-36 - Order for adoption

(a) Effect on parent-child relationship. --

(1) This subsection does not limit the right of an individual to provide for distribution of property by will.

(2) Except as provided in § 2-123 of the Real Property Article, after a court enters an order for adoption under this subtitle:

(i) the adoptee:

1. is the child of the adoptive parent for all intents and purposes; and

2. is entitled to all of the rights and privileges of and is subject to all of the obligations of offspring born to the adoptive parent;

(ii) each of the adoptee's living parents is:

1. relieved of all parental duties and obligations to the adoptee; and

2. divested of all parental rights as to the adoptee; and

(iii) the Estates and Trusts Article shall govern all of the rights of inheritance between the adoptee and parental relatives.

(b) Effect on pending cases. -- An order for adoption under this subtitle terminates all pending guardianship cases as to the adoptee.

(c) Adoption of adults. -- Adoption of an adult has the same legal effect as adoption of a minor.

(d) Notice of order. --

(1) When a court enters an order for a child's adoption under this subtitle, the court shall send notice to:

(i) each court that has a pending guardianship case as to the adoptee;

(ii) each of the child's living, former parents who has not waived the right to notice; and

(iii) the former guardian of the child.

(2) Service on a parent under this subsection shall be at the parent's last address known to the court.