Bill > HB152

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 courts may order assessments to evaluate a child's health, safety, welfare, and best interests in contested custody cases, and may appoint a custody evaluator to conduct a home study or evaluate specific issues. To be eligible as a custody evaluator, an individual must meet stringent professional requirements, including being a licensed physician in psychiatry, a licensed psychologist, clinical marriage and family therapist, clinical social worker, licensed graduate or master social worker with relevant experience, or a licensed clinical professional counselor. Additionally, the evaluator must have completed a training program approved by the Administrative Office of the Courts, maintained continuing education in their field, have experience in 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 impacts of divorce and separation. The bill mandates that courts cannot order assessment costs without giving parties notice and an opportunity to object, and it will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0152?ys=2025RS