Maryland HB137 sets qualifications for child custody evaluators in family law cases.

Maryland HB137 establishes qualifications for child custody evaluators appointed in family law cases. A custody evaluator must be a physician board-certified in psychiatry or a licensed professional with relevant experience and training. Courts may waive these requirements for experienced court employees or contractors. The bill also mandates that courts provide notice and an opportunity to object before ordering a party to pay for an assessment. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.

Maryland HB137 sets qualifications for child custody evaluators in family law cases.

Maryland HB137 establishes qualifications for child custody evaluators appointed in family law cases. A custody evaluator must be a physician board-certified in psychiatry or a licensed professional with relevant experience and training. Courts may waive these requirements for experienced court employees or contractors. The bill also mandates that courts provide notice and an opportunity to object before ordering a party to pay for an assessment. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.