2013 Maryland Code
FAMILY LAW
§ 5-3B-19 - Considerations.

(a) In general. -- In ruling on a petition for a prospective adoptee's adoption under this subtitle, a court shall consider:

(1) all factors necessary to determine the prospective adoptee's best interests; and

(2) any report prepared for the court.

(b) "Disability" defined; withholding consent. --

(1) (i) In this subsection, "disability" means:

1. a physical disability, infirmity, malformation, or disfigurement that is caused by bodily injury, birth defect, or illness, including epilepsy;

2. a mental impairment or deficiency;

3. a record of having a physical or mental impairment as defined under this paragraph; or

4. being regarded as having a physical or mental impairment as defined under this paragraph.

(ii) "Disability" includes:

1. any degree of paralysis or amputation;

2. blindness or visual impairment;

3. deafness or hearing impairment;

4. muteness or speech impediment;

5. physical reliance on a service animal or a wheelchair or other remedial appliance or device; and

6. intellectual disability, as defined in § 7-101 of the Health - General Article, and any other mental impairment or deficiency that may have necessitated remedial or special education and related services.

(2) In ruling on an adoption petition under this subtitle, a court may not deny the petition solely because the petitioner:

(i) is single or unmarried; or

(ii) has a disability.