Bill > HB622

This bill modifies Maryland's juvenile interrogation law to add a new exception to the existing requirements for custodial interrogations of children. Currently, law enforcement must ensure that a child consults with an attorney (either retained privately or provided by the Public Defender) and that the child's parent or guardian is notified before an interrogation. The bill introduces a new provision allowing law enforcement to conduct an interrogation without attorney consultation if the child's parent, guardian, or custodian consents. The bill maintains other existing protections, such as a requirement to record interrogations when possible and a rebuttable presumption that statements made during non-compliant interrogations are inadmissible in court. The law defines "custodial interrogation" using its existing judicial interpretation and includes school resource officers within the definition of law enforcement officers. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and is part of the Juvenile Justice Restoration Act of 2025, aiming to provide some flexibility in juvenile interrogation procedures while still maintaining safeguards for children's legal rights.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0622?ys=2025RS