Bill > SB25

This bill establishes comprehensive qualifications for child custody evaluators in Maryland, defining them as individuals appointed or approved by a court to perform custody evaluations. The bill specifies that a custody evaluator must be a licensed professional from specific fields, including physicians board-certified in psychiatry, licensed psychologists, clinical marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, licensed graduate or master social workers with at least two years of relevant experience, or licensed clinical professional counselors. Additionally, these evaluators must complete a training program approved by the Administrative Office of the Courts, maintain continuing education in their field, have training or experience in performing custody evaluations, and possess current knowledge about critical areas such as domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, trauma, family dynamics, child and adult development, and the psychological impacts of divorce and separation. Courts may order these assessments to aid in evaluating a child's health, safety, welfare, and best interests in contested custody or visitation cases, but must provide notice and an opportunity for parties to object before assigning evaluation costs. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to ensure that custody evaluators are highly qualified professionals capable of making informed recommendations in sensitive family law matters.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0025?ys=2025RS