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If your child has been abused physically, sexually, or emotionally (or there are even mere threats of abuse) If your co-parent is involved in illegal activity or actively uses drugs/alcohol. If your child is witnessing abuse, violence, addiction, or other dangerous behaviors.

Maryland courts examine a wide range of indicators that someone may be fit or unfit for caregiving. You may be asked to submit things like pay stubs, tax information, medical records, household documentation, and explanations about how you plan to care for the child.

If your co-parent has been found guilty of neglecting or abusing another minor in the past. If you have reason to believe the child will be taken far away (out of state) and this goes against your existing custody order. If your co-parent is not in a stable or safe housing situation.

Maryland is one of many states that allow a child to weigh in with their preferences at 16 years of age. It also allows children 16 years and older to petition the court for a change of custody if they're not happy with the arrangement ordered in the initial decree.

Unfit parents may be: Physically abusive. Sexually abusive. Abandoning, such as frequently disappearing or leaving the kids alone. Neglectful, such as not keeping the kids fed, clothed, or properly hygienic.

If you already have a court order for custody or visitation, you can request the court to change custody or visitation. To do this you may: (1) obtain the services of an attorney to handle your case; or (2) file the case yourself by using the Domestic Relations forms.