Family Law - Child Abuse and Neglect Investigations ("Know Before They Knock" Family Right to Notice Act)

SB 650, the "Know Before They Knock" Family Right to Notice Act, requires Maryland child protective services and law enforcement to provide parents or legal guardians with specific written and oral notice during initial contact in child abuse or neglect investigations. The notice details key rights, including the right to refuse entry into their home without a court order, the right to consult an attorney before speaking, and the right not to sign documents or allow interviews without legal counsel. This bill directly affects parents or guardians of children involved in investigations, changing the process by mandating this notice at the first point of contact. The law amends Maryland’s Family Law (Section 5-706) to ensure families understand their legal protections during investigations.