Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

Legal Guardianship of a Minor

My wife and I are former Peace Corps Volunteers. We served in the Federated States of Micronesia where we lived with and became close friends with a local family. We have now decided, with the family's consent, that 2 of the children are going to come to the U.S. and live with us and go to school. The school district in Maryland (Anne Arundel County) requires us to become legal guardians. I have looked for information online for filing for legal guardianship and have not been able to find anything relevant to the county. The other issue is that the parents live in Micronesia and will not at anytime be in the United States. The parents; however, are in full agreement with the children living with us and becoming legal guardians.


Asked on 6/12/08, 2:58 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Re: Legal Guardianship of a Minor

The MD guardianship law is found in the Family Law Article, beginning at Sec. 5-313, and is also covered by MD Court rules Sec. 9-101. You should be able to access the code through the state government website. This can be a complicated matter for a non-lawyer, and you would be well advised to consult with one who handles these types of cases.

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Answered on 6/12/08, 4:53 pm
Adele Abrams Law Office of Adele L. Abrams PC

Re: Legal Guardianship of a Minor

This is a common situation (often involving family members who take over care of nieces, grandkids etc.) but could be complicated by the biological parents being overseas. However, we can work with you to get this accomplished so that they can attend the coming school session in AA Co. Please contact us if you want assistance in filing the required forms and preparing the supporting affidavits. Thank you.

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Answered on 6/14/08, 7:49 pm


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