Bill

Bill > SB548


MD SB548

MD SB548
Family Law - Child Support - Determination of Custody and Agreements Between Parents


summary

Introduced
02/04/2026
In Committee
02/04/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Requiring that a court determine custody before awarding child support under certain circumstances; and establishing a conclusive presumption that the application of the child support guidelines would be unjust or inappropriate if the parents mutually assert that the agreement is in the best interest of the child.

AI Summary

This bill mandates that before a court can award child support, it must first determine child custody if a parent requests it and there hasn't been a prior custody ruling, ensuring that the child's living arrangements are settled before financial support is calculated. Additionally, it establishes a definitive legal assumption, meaning it cannot be challenged, that applying standard child support guidelines would be unfair or unsuitable if both parents jointly agree that their own negotiated agreement is in the child's best interest, providing more flexibility for parents to create customized support plans they believe are most beneficial for their children.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Senate Judicial Proceedings Hearing (13:00:00 2/18/2026 ) (on 02/18/2026)

bill text


bill summary

Loading...

bill summary

Loading...
Loading...