MD HB1505

Establishes a rebuttable presumption in initial child custody proceedings that joint legal custody and joint physical custody with approximately equal parenting time are in the child's best interests, regardless of parents' marital status or gender

Courts may consider factors including the child's preferences (if emotionally mature), distance between parents' residences, distance to school, work schedule flexibility, and ability to assist with after-school care

Courts may award sole custody to one parent if a preponderance of evidence shows joint custody is not in the child's best interests, but must enter the factors considered on the record

When sole custody is awarded, the court must grant visitation ensuring frequent and continuing contact between the child and the noncustodial parent

Effective date: October 1, 2025