reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 3 - Distress for Rent › Section 8-329 - Assignment of Leases; Liability of Assignee

(a)    If a lease for more than three months is assigned, the assignee is liable to distress for any goods on the leased premises as though originally named in the lease as tenant.
(b)    Any goods of the assignee on the leased premises shall be subject to the landlord’s distress claim to the same extent as though the assignee was originally a tenant. This liability of goods exists regardless of whether the assignment was oral or written and regardless of the terms set out in the assignment. The obligation of the assignee of the lease for personal liability shall be restricted to the terms and agreements contained in the assignment of lease. The exercise of any right of the landlord against the assignee provided in this section does not bar any rights the landlord may have against the assignor.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 3 - Distress for Rent › Section 8-330 - Service of Process

Service of all process by the court following service of the original petition in distress may be made by first-class mail. Every party and claimant is charged with notice of each step of the proceeding and is bound by it. A claim of nonreceipt of a notice mailed to a party or claimant does not affect the validity of the order or notice given by first-class mail.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 3 - Distress for Rent › Section 8-331 - Stay When Notice Not Received

If the court finds that any notice required under this subtitle to be sent by mail actually has not been received by the person to whom the notice was addressed and that injustice will result, the court shall order a stay of further proceedings until it is satisfied that the person has had an opportunity to protect the person’s interests.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 3 - Distress for Rent › Section 8-332 - Right to Appeal; Time for Taking; Trial; Stays

(a)    Any aggrieved party may appeal from any final order or judgment in an action of distress to the circuit court of the county. The appeal shall be taken within 14 days from the date of the order or judgment.
(b)    On appeal the case shall be tried de novo. On the application of any party to the action for a prompt hearing of the appeal, it shall be set for trial as soon as possible. Any party has the right to a jury trial on application in accordance with the rules adopted by the appellate court.
(c)    An appeal does not stay or prevent a subsequent distress for rent falling due after the original petition for distress. However, the court may order a stay of all further proceedings, including those for subsequent rent, if the tenant files an appeal bond approved by the court.
(d)    An appeal does not stay execution of a judgment or order unless an approved appeal bond is filed.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 4 - Landlord's Remedies Other Than Distraint › Section 8-403 - Payment of Rents Into Court or Administrative Agency

(a)    If the court in any case brought under § 8–401 or § 8–402 of this subtitle or § 14–132 of this article orders an adjournment of the trial for a longer period than provided for in the section under which the case has been instituted, the tenant or the person in possession shall pay into the court exercising jurisdiction in the case an amount and in the manner determined by the court to be appropriate as specified in § 8–118 of this title or, in the case of wrongful detainer, § 8–118.1 of this title.
(b)    However, the court may order a tenant to pay rents due and as come due into an administrative agency of any county which is empowered by local law to hold rents in escrow pending investigation and disposition of complaints by tenants; the court also may refer that case to the administrative agency for investigation and report to the court.
(c)    The payment into the court shall be due before the date to which the trial is adjourned or within 5 days after adjournment if the trial is adjourned more than 5 days, or to the administrative agency within 5 days after the court has ordered the rent paid into an administrative agency.
(d)    If, on motion of the plaintiff and after hearing, the court determines that the payment was not made as ordered by the court and that there is no legal justification for the failure to pay, the court shall give judgment in favor of the plaintiff and issue a warrant for possession in accordance with the provisions of the section under which the case is brought.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 4 - Landlord's Remedies Other Than Distraint › Section 8-404 - Disputed Claims to Possession

(a)    In this section, “claimant” means the person identified by a tenant or person in possession as someone who claims title to the property leased or possessed by the tenant or person in possession.
(b)    (1)    In any action brought under § 8–401 or § 8–402 of this subtitle or § 14–132 of this article, if the tenant or person in possession shall allege that the title to the property is disputed and in the case of a lease, that title is claimed by a claimant whom the tenant shall name, by virtue of a right or title accruing or happening since the commencement of the lease, by descent or deed from or by devise under the last will or testament of the landlord and, otherwise, if the person in possession or any claimant is alleged to have title, then the court shall, upon determination that title is relevant, forbear to give judgment for possession and costs.
(2)    The tenant or person in possession so claiming shall cause a summons to be immediately issued to the claimant by the District Court and made returnable within 5 days next following.
(3)    The claimant shall appear before the court and shall under oath, declare that the claimant claims title to the property which is the subject of the action and shall, with two sufficient securities, enter into bond to the plaintiff or parties in interest, in such sum as the court shall determine to be proper and reasonable security to said plaintiff or parties in interest, to prosecute with effect the claimant’s claim in the circuit court for the county.
(4)    If the said claim shall not be commenced in the circuit court within 10 days of the first appearance of the claimant in the District Court, the District Court shall proceed to give judgment for possession and costs and issue its warrant.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 4 - Landlord's Remedies Other Than Distraint › Section 8-405 - Summary Ejectment When Tenant Dies Intestate and Without Next of Kin

(a)    If a tenant under a lease dies intestate and without next of kin, the landlord may bring an action for summary ejectment under § 8–401 of this subtitle against the tenant named in the lease notwithstanding the tenant’s death.
(b)    The landlord shall certify to the court in the written complaint required under § 8–401(b)(1) of this subtitle that, to the best of the landlord’s knowledge, the tenant is deceased, intestate, and without next of kin.
(c)    Property or income from property that a landlord holds for a deceased, intestate tenant without next of kin shall be presumed abandoned in accordance with Title 17 of the Commercial Law Article.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 5 - Tenant Remedies › Section 8-501 - Time of Notice to Terminate Tenancy

No written agreement between a landlord and tenant shall provide for a longer notice period to be furnished by the tenant to the landlord in order to terminate the tenancy than that required of the landlord to the tenant in order to terminate the tenancy.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 5A - Rental Housing -- Victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault › Section 8-5A-01 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Abuse” has the meaning stated in § 4–501(b) of the Family Law Article.
(c)    “Legal occupant” means an occupant who resides on the premises with the actual knowledge and permission of the landlord.
(d)    “Offender” means a person who commits an act of abuse.
(e)    “Peace order” means an enforceable final peace order.
(f)    “Protective order” means an enforceable final protective order.
(g)    “Qualified third party” means:
(1)    A physician who is authorized to practice medicine under the Health Occupations Article;
(2)    A psychologist who is authorized to practice psychology under the Health Occupations Article;
(3)    A social worker or caseworker of any public or private health or social services agency or provider; or
(4)    An advocate from a domestic violence or sexual assault prevention or assistance program.
(h)    “Report by a qualified third party” means a report based on information received by a qualified third party while acting in a professional capacity that:
(1)    Indicates that the tenant or a legal occupant is seeking assistance as a result of an act of abuse;
(2)    Includes the following elements:
(i)    The name of the tenant or legal occupant;
(ii)    A statement that the tenant or legal occupant is a victim of abuse;
(iii)    The date, time, location, and a brief description of the incident;
(iv)    The name and physical description of the alleged offender, if known;
(v)    The name and address of the employer of the qualified third party;
(vi)    The licensing entity and license number of the qualified third party, if the qualified third party is required to be licensed; and
(vii)    The signature of the qualified third party, under seal of a notary public; and
(3)    Is signed and acknowledged by the tenant or legal occupant under penalty of perjury.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 5A - Rental Housing -- Victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault › Section 8-5A-03 - Notice -- Victim of Abuse

(a)    If a tenant or legal occupant is a victim of abuse, the tenant may terminate the tenant’s future liability under a residential lease under § 8–5A–02 of this subtitle if the tenant provides the landlord with written notice by first–class mail or hand delivery of an intent to vacate the leased premises, including the tenant’s or legal occupant’s status as a victim of abuse.
(b)    The notice provided under subsection (a) of this section shall include:
(1)    A copy of a protective order issued for the benefit of the tenant or legal occupant under § 4–506 of the Family Law Article;
(2)    A copy of a peace order issued for the benefit of the tenant or legal occupant under § 3–1505 of the Courts Article for which the underlying act was an act of abuse; or
(3)    A copy of a report by a qualified third party, provided that:
(i)    The name and physical description of the alleged perpetrator are redacted; and
(ii)    The report was signed by the qualified third party within the preceding 60 days.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 5A - Rental Housing -- Victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault › Section 8-5A-04 - Action for Possession of Property

(a)    This section applies to an action for possession of property under § 8–402.1 of this title against a tenant or legal occupant who is a victim of abuse.
(b)    (1)    A tenant is deemed to have raised a rebuttable presumption that the alleged breach of the lease does not warrant an eviction if the tenant provides to the court:
(i)    A copy of a protective order issued for the benefit of the tenant or legal occupant under § 4–506 of the Family Law Article;
(ii)    A copy of a peace order issued for the benefit of the tenant or legal occupant under § 3–1505 of the Courts Article for which the underlying act was an act of abuse; or
(iii)    A report by a qualified third party, provided that:
1.    The name and physical description of the alleged perpetrator are redacted; and
2.    The alleged breach of the lease occurred within 60 days of the date the report was signed by the qualified third party.
(2)    If an act of abuse is raised as a defense in an action for possession of property under § 8–402.1 of this title, the court, in its discretion, may enter a judgment in favor of a tenant who does not provide the evidence described in paragraph (1) of this subsection.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 5A - Rental Housing -- Victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault › Section 8-5A-05 - Written Request to Change Locks

(a)    A person who is a victim of abuse and who is a tenant under a residential lease may provide to the landlord a written request to change the locks of the leased premises if the protective order or peace order issued for the benefit of the tenant or legal occupant requires the respondent to refrain from entering or to vacate the residence of the tenant or legal occupant.
(b)    The written request provided under subsection (a) of this section shall include:
(1)    A copy of a protective order issued for the benefit of the tenant or legal occupant under § 4–506 of the Family Law Article; or
(2)    A copy of a peace order issued for the benefit of the tenant or legal occupant under § 3–1505 of the Courts Article for which the underlying act was an act of abuse.
(c)    (1)    The landlord shall change the locks on the leased premises by the close of the next business day after receiving a written request under subsection (a) of this section.
(2)    If the landlord fails to change the locks as required under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the tenant:
(i)    May have the locks changed by a certified locksmith on the leased premises without permission from the landlord; and
(ii)    Shall give a duplicate key to the landlord or the landlord’s agent by the close of the next business day after the lock change.
(d)    If a landlord changes the locks on a tenant’s leased premises under subsection (c) of this section, the landlord:
(1)    Shall provide a copy of the new key to the tenant who made the request for the change of locks at a mutually agreed time not to exceed 48 hours following the lock change; and
(2)    May charge a fee to the tenant not exceeding the reasonable cost of changing the locks.
(e)    (1)    If a landlord charges a fee to the tenant for changing the locks on a tenant’s leased premises under subsection (d) of this section, the tenant shall pay the fee within 45 days of the date the locks are changed.
(2)    If a tenant does not pay a fee as required under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the landlord may:
(i)    Charge the fee as additional rent; or
(ii)    Withhold the amount of the fee from the tenant’s security deposit.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 5A - Rental Housing -- Victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault › Section 8-5A-06 - Restrictions on Disclosure of Tenant Information by Landlord

A landlord may not disclose any information provided by a tenant under this subtitle to a third party unless:
(1)    The tenant consents in writing to the disclosure; or
(2)    The disclosure is required by law or a court order.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 6 - Jury Demands › Section 8-602 - Pleadings; Time of Filings

(a)    A jury demand must be made by a separate written pleading. Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a jury demand under this subsection shall be filed with the court as provided in item (1) or (2) of this subsection or the right to trial by jury is waived:
(1)    In nonresidential cases, within fifteen days of posting or personal service, or at the parties’ first scheduled appearance before the court, whichever occurs sooner; and
(2)    In residential cases, at the parties’ first scheduled appearance before the court.
(b)    The time for filing the jury demand may be extended by agreement of all parties and that extension shall not be later than the first scheduled appearance of the parties.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 6 - Jury Demands › Section 8-603 - Enforceability of Waivers in Lease

(a)    A provision contained within a residential lease in which a tenant is occupying the space as that tenant’s primary residence which waives a trial by jury shall be invalid and unenforceable.
(b)    A provision in any lease other than that specified in subsection (a) of this section which waives a trial by jury shall be valid and enforceable.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 7 - Registry of Ground Leases › Section 8-701 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Current ground rent deed of record” means the document that vests title to the reversionary interest in the current ground lease holder.
(c)    “Department” means the State Department of Assessments and Taxation.
(d)    “Ground lease” means a residential lease or sublease for a term of years renewable forever subject to the payment of a periodic ground rent.
(e)    (1)    “Ground lease holder” means the holder of the reversionary interest under a ground lease.
(2)    “Ground lease holder” includes an agent of the ground lease holder.
(f)    “Ground rent” means a rent issuing out of, or collectible in connection with, the reversionary interest under a ground lease.
(g)    “Leasehold interest” means the tenancy in real property created under a ground lease.
(h)    “Leasehold tenant” means the holder of the leasehold interest under a ground lease.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 7 - Registry of Ground Leases › Section 8-702 - Scope

(a)    This subtitle applies to residential property that was or is used, intended to be used, or authorized to be used for four or fewer dwelling units.
(b)    This subtitle does not apply to property:
(1)    Leased for business, commercial, manufacturing, mercantile, or industrial purposes, or any other purpose that is not primarily residential;
(2)    Improved or to be improved by any apartment, condominium, cooperative, or other building for multifamily use of greater than four dwelling units; or
(3)    Leased for dwellings or mobile homes that are erected or placed in a mobile home development or mobile home park.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 7 - Registry of Ground Leases › Section 8-703 - Online Registry

(a)    (1)    The Department shall maintain an online registry of all properties that are subject to ground leases.
(2)    The online registry shall:
(i)    Identify properties for which a renewal notice to preserve the irredeemability of an irredeemable ground lease has been filed; and
(ii)    Include a clear notation of the expiration date for each renewal notice.
(b)    The Department is not responsible for the completeness or accuracy of the contents of the online registry.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 7 - Registry of Ground Leases › Section 8-704 - Registration of Ground Lease

(a)    A ground lease holder shall register a ground lease with the Department by submitting a registration form that the Department requires.
(b)    The registration form shall include:
(1)    The premise address and tax identification number of the property for which the ground lease was created;
(2)    (i)    The name and address of the ground lease holder; and
(ii)    A section that provides the ground lease holder the option to include the ground lease holder’s telephone number and e–mail address;
(3)    The name and address of the leasehold tenant;
(4)    The name and address of the person to whom the ground rent payment is sent;
(5)    The amount and payment dates of the ground rent installments;
(6)    To the best of the ground lease holder’s knowledge, a statement of the range of years in which the ground lease was created; and
(7)    The liber and folio information for the current ground rent deed of record.
(c)    The reporting form for changes or corrections to a ground lease registration shall include a section that provides the ground lease holder the option to include the ground lease holder’s telephone number and e–mail address.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 7 - Registry of Ground Leases › Section 8-705 - Registration of Ground Lease -- by Department

(a)    The Department shall register a ground lease when the Department receives a registration form.
(b)    If for any reason the Department is unable to register a ground lease for which a registration form has been submitted, the Department shall notify the ground lease holder of that ground lease, within 30 days of processing the registration form, of any information needed by the Department so as to complete the registration.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 7 - Registry of Ground Leases › Section 8-706 - Notification to Department of Change in Circumstances

After a ground lease is registered, the ground lease holder shall promptly notify the Department of:
(1)    A change in the name or address of the ground lease holder or person to whom the ground rent payment is sent;
(2)    A redemption of the ground lease; and
(3)    Any other information the Department requires.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 7 - Registry of Ground Leases › Section 8-707 - When Ground Lease Not Registered

If a ground lease is not registered in accordance with this subtitle, the ground lease holder may not:
(1)    Collect any ground rent payments due under the ground lease;
(2)    Bring a civil action against the leasehold tenant to enforce any rights the ground lease holder may have under the ground lease; or
(3)    Bring an action against the leasehold tenant under Subtitle 8 of this title.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 7 - Registry of Ground Leases › Section 8-707.1 - Redemption of Ground Lease -- Documentation

(a)    (1)    Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a leasehold tenant or an interested party may submit to the Department documentation satisfactory to the Department of the redemption of a ground lease if:
(i)    The ground lease is redeemed in a private transaction between the ground lease holder and the leasehold tenant; and
(ii)    The ground lease holder has failed to notify the Department of the redemption as required under § 8–706(2) of this subtitle.
(2)    The documentation submitted under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall include a certified copy of the ground lease redemption deed that has been filed in the land records of the county in which the property that was subject to the ground lease is located.
(b)    After accepting documentation under subsection (a) of this section, the Department shall update the online registry as required under § 8–703 of this subtitle to indicate that a ground lease has been redeemed.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 8 - Residential Ground Leases › Section 8-801 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Ground lease” means a residential lease or sublease for a term of years renewable forever subject to the payment of a periodic ground rent.
(c)    (1)    “Ground lease holder” means the holder of the reversionary interest under a ground lease.
(2)    “Ground lease holder” includes an agent of the ground lease holder.
(d)    “Ground rent” means a rent issuing out of, or collectible in connection with, the reversionary interest under a ground lease.
(e)    “Leasehold interest” means the tenancy in real property created under a ground lease.
(f)    “Leasehold tenant” means the holder of the leasehold interest under a ground lease.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 8 - Residential Ground Leases › Section 8-802 - General Consideration

(a)    This subtitle applies to residential property that was or is used, intended to be used, or authorized to be used for four or fewer dwelling units.
(b)    This subtitle does not apply to property:
(1)    Leased for business, commercial, manufacturing, mercantile, or industrial purposes, or any other purpose that is not primarily residential;
(2)    Improved or to be improved by any apartment, condominium, cooperative, or other building for multifamily use of greater than four dwelling units; or
(3)    Leased for dwellings or mobile homes that are erected or placed in a mobile home development or mobile home park.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 8 - Residential Ground Leases › Section 8-803 - Reversionary Interest Under a Ground Lease or Sublease Prohibited for Four or Fewer Dwelling Units

(a)    This section does not apply to property that is subject to an affordable housing land trust agreement executed under Title 14, Subtitle 5 of this article.
(b)    On or after January 22, 2007, the owner of a fee simple or leasehold estate in residential property that is or was used, intended to be used, or authorized to be used for four or fewer dwelling units may not create a reversionary interest in the property under a ground lease or a ground sublease for a term of years renewable forever subject to the payment of a periodic ground rent.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 8 - Residential Ground Leases › Section 8-806 - Past Due Ground Rent Pursuant to Action by Ground Lease Holder or Reversionary Transferee

(a)    (1)    In any suit, action, or proceeding by a ground lease holder, or the transferee of the reversion in property subject to a ground lease, to recover past due ground rent, the ground lease holder, or the transferee of the reversion is entitled to demand or recover not more than 3 years’ past due ground rent, calculated from the date notice was sent under § 8–807(c)(1) of this subtitle.
(2)    Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a ground lease holder may not bring any suit, action, or proceeding against the current leasehold tenant or a former leasehold tenant to recover the ground rent that was due and owing before the date the current leasehold tenant acquired title to the leasehold interest if the ground lease was not registered in accordance with Subtitle 7 of this title before the date the current leasehold tenant acquired title.
(b)    If authorized under the ground lease, a ground lease holder may be reimbursed for reasonable late fees, interest, collection costs, and expenses, subject to the same limitations as provided in § 8–807 of this subtitle.
(c)    (1)    Notwithstanding any other provision of law, in any suit, action, or proceeding to recover past due ground rent, a ground lease holder may only recover not more than 3 years’ past due ground rent, calculated from the date notice was sent under § 8–807(c)(1) of this subtitle, if the property is:
(i)    Owned or acquired by any means by the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore; and
(ii)    Distressed property, as defined in § 21–17(a)(3) of the Public Local Laws of Baltimore City.
(2)    Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a ground lease holder may not bring any suit, action, or proceeding against the current leasehold tenant to recover the ground rent that was due and owing from a former leasehold tenant before the date that the current leasehold tenant acquired title, if the property is:
(i)    Owned or acquired by any means by the current leasehold tenant; and
(ii)    Abandoned property, as defined in § 21–17(a)(2) of the Public Local Laws of Baltimore City.
(3)    With regard to property described under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection, a ground lease holder may request in writing that the current leasehold tenant acquire the reversionary interest under the ground lease for the market value established at the time of the acquisition by the current leasehold tenant under the ground lease.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 8 - Residential Ground Leases › Section 8-808 - Notice of Change of Address and Transfer of Leasehold Interest on Property Subject to Ground Lease

(a)    Within 30 days of any change of address of a leasehold tenant, the leasehold tenant shall notify the ground lease holder of the change, including the new address and the date of the change.
(b)    Within 30 days of any transfer of a leasehold interest on property subject to a ground lease, the leasehold tenant shall notify the ground lease holder of the transfer. The notification shall include the name and address of the transferee, and date of transfer.
(c)    A leasehold tenant shall send notice under this section to the last known address of the ground lease holder.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 8 - Residential Ground Leases › Section 8-810 - Notice of Transfer of Ground Lease

(a)    Within 30 days after any transfer of a ground lease, the transferee shall notify the leasehold tenant of the transfer.
(b)    (1)    The notification shall include the name and address of the new ground lease holder and the date of the transfer.
(2)    If the property is subject to a redeemable ground rent, the notification shall also include the following notice:
“As the owner of the property subject to this ground lease, you are entitled to redeem, or purchase, the ground lease from the ground lease holder and obtain absolute ownership of the property. The redemption amount is fixed by law but may also be negotiated with the ground lease holder for a different amount. For information on redeeming the ground lease, contact the ground lease holder.”
(c)    A ground lease holder shall send notice under this section to the last known address of the leasehold tenant.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 8 - Residential Ground Leases › Section 8-811 - Notice of Ground Rent in Contract for Sale of Property

A contract for the sale of real property subject to a ground rent shall contain the following notice in boldface type, at least as large as 14 point, in substantially the following form:
“NOTICE REQUIRED BY MARYLAND LAW
REGARDING YOUR GROUND RENT
This property (address) is subject to a ground lease. The annual payment on the ground lease (“ground rent”) is $(dollar amount), payable in yearly or half–yearly installments on (date or dates).
The next ground rent payment is due (day, month, year) in the amount of $(dollar amount).
The payment of the ground rent should be sent to:
(name of ground lease holder)
(address)
(phone number)
NOTE REGARDING YOUR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES UNDER MARYLAND LAW:
As the owner of this property, you are obligated to pay the ground rent to the ground lease holder. It is also your responsibility to notify the ground lease holder if you change your address or transfer ownership of the property.
If you fail to pay the ground rent on time, you are still responsible for paying the ground rent. In addition, if the ground lease holder files an action in court to collect the past due ground rent, you may be required to pay the ground lease holder for fees and costs associated with the collection of the past due ground rent. In addition, the ground lease holder may also file an action in court to take possession of the property, which may result in your being responsible for additional fees and costs and ultimately in your loss of the property. Please note that under Maryland law, a ground lease holder may demand not more than 3 years of past due ground rent,  and there are limits on how much a ground lease holder may be reimbursed for fees and costs. If you fail to pay the ground rent on time, you should contact a lawyer for advice.
As the owner of this property, you are entitled to redeem, or purchase, the ground lease from the ground lease holder and obtain absolute ownership of the property. The redemption amount is fixed by law as follows:
(1)    For a sum equal to the annual rent reserved multiplied by:
(i)    25, which is capitalization at 4 percent, if the lease was executed from April 8, 1884, to April 5, 1888, both inclusive;
(ii)    8.33, which is capitalization at 12 percent, if the lease was or is created after July 1, 1982; or
(iii)    16.66, which is capitalization at 6 percent, if the lease was created at any other time;
(2)    For a lesser sum if specified in the lease; or
(3)    For a sum to which the parties may agree at the time of redemption.
The amount to redeem your ground lease is _____. If you wish to redeem the ground lease, contact the ground lease holder. If the identity of the ground lease holder is unknown, the State Department of Assessments and Taxation provides a process to redeem the ground lease that may result in your obtaining absolute ownership of the property. If you would like to obtain absolute ownership of this property, you should contact a lawyer for advice.”.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 8 - Residential Ground Leases › Section 8-812 - Redemption of Ground Lease

(a)    This section does not apply to a:
(1)    Home equity line of credit;
(2)    Loan secured by an indemnity deed of trust; or
(3)    Commercial loan.
(b)    Before the settlement of a loan secured by a mortgage or deed of trust on residential real property improved by four or fewer single–family units that is subject to a redeemable ground rent, the settlement agent shall notify the borrower that:
(1)    The borrower has the right to redeem the ground rent under § 8–804 of this subtitle;
(2)    The redemption amount is fixed by law but may also be negotiated with the ground lease holder for a different amount;
(3)    It may be possible to include the amount of the redemption in this loan;
(4)    For information on redeeming the ground rent, the borrower should contact the ground lease holder; and
(5)    For information on including the amount of the redemption in this loan, the borrower should contact the lender or credit grantor making this loan.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 9 - Access to Legal Representation in Eviction Cases › Section 8-901 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Community group” means a nonprofit entity with the capacity to conduct tenant outreach and provide engagement, education, and information.
(c)    “Covered individual” means an individual who:
(1)    Occupies a residential property under a claim of legal right other than owner, including a tenant in a building owned, operated, or managed by a public housing authority; and
(2)    Is a member of a household with an income that is not greater than 50% of the median income, adjusted for household size, in the State as determined by the United States Department of Health and Human Services or its successor.
(d)    “Designated organization” means a nonprofit entity designated by MLSC with the ability to provide legal representation to covered individuals.
(e)    “Fund” means the Access to Counsel in Evictions Special Fund.
(f)    “Legal representation” includes all representation by an attorney beyond brief legal advice and is not limited to the formal entry of appearance in court.
(g)    “MLSC” means the Maryland Legal Services Corporation.
(h)    “Program” means the Access to Counsel in Evictions Program.
(i)    “Task Force” means the Access to Counsel in Evictions Task Force.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 9 - Access to Legal Representation in Eviction Cases › Section 8-903 - Access to Counsel in Evictions Program -- Purpose of Program

(a)    There is an Access to Counsel in Evictions Program administered by MLSC.
(b)    The purpose of the Program is to organize and direct services and resources in order to provide all covered individuals in the State with access to legal representation as required under this subtitle.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 9 - Access to Legal Representation in Eviction Cases › Section 8-904 - Proceedings to Evict or Terminate Tenancy or Housing Subsidy -- Access to Legal Representation -- Timing -- Contract for Services

(a)    Under the Program, MLSC shall provide for access to legal representation by a covered individual for a judicial or administrative proceeding to evict or terminate the tenancy or housing subsidy of a covered individual, including the first appeal of a decision in the proceeding if the designated organization determines that there are sufficient legal grounds for the appeal.
(b)    (1)    Under the Program, a designated organization shall ensure that a covered individual receives access to legal representation by an attorney in a proceeding as required under this subtitle as soon as possible after:
(i)    A landlord provides notice to terminate a tenancy;
(ii)    The initiation of an eviction proceeding; or
(iii)    The determination by a designated organization that a proceeding related to a constructive eviction on behalf of a covered individual should be initiated.
(2)    If feasible, legal representation required under this subsection should begin no later than the time of the covered individual’s first appearance in a proceeding.
(c)    MLSC may contract with a designated organization to provide all or part of the services required under this section.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 9 - Access to Legal Representation in Eviction Cases › Section 8-905 - Informational Pamphlet Developed -- Copies Served With Process by Sheriff or Constable

(a)    MLSC shall develop an informational pamphlet in both English and other languages MLSC determines appropriate:
(1)    Describing the legal rights of tenants and the access to counsel established under this subtitle; and
(2)    Providing information on resources available to tenants.
(b)    A sheriff or constable shall provide a copy of the pamphlet described under subsection (a) of this section in addition to the process served on a tenant, an assignee, or a subtenant in accordance with the following provisions of this article:
(1)    An eviction proceeding for a failure to pay rent under § 8–401;
(2)    An eviction proceeding for a tenant holding over under § 8–402; and
(3)    An eviction proceeding for a breach of lease under § 8–402.1.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 9 - Access to Legal Representation in Eviction Cases › Section 8-906 - Outreach and Education to Tenants Regarding Rights and Legal Representation

MLSC shall designate and contract with appropriate community groups to conduct outreach and provide education to tenants locally and throughout the State regarding tenants’ rights and the access to legal representation under this subtitle.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 9 - Access to Legal Representation in Eviction Cases › Section 8-907 - Annual Report of Activities

On or before August 31 each year, MLSC shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly:
(1)    The number of covered individuals provided legal representation during the previous calendar year;
(2)    Information on and metrics evaluating case outcomes; and
(3)    A summary of the engagement and education of tenants.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 9 - Access to Legal Representation in Eviction Cases › Section 8-908 - Access to Counsel in Evictions Task Force -- Members -- Chair -- Staff -- Compensation -- Annual Report on Findings and Recommendations -- Grants

(a)    There is an Access to Counsel in Evictions Task Force.
(b)    (1)    The Task Force consists of up to 15 members appointed by the Office of the Attorney General and shall include:
(i)    At least two representatives of the Maryland State Bar Association;
(ii)    At least two representatives of tenant advocacy groups or designated organizations;
(iii)    At least two representatives of the Judiciary;
(iv)    At least two representatives of community groups;
(v)    At least two representatives of landlords;
(vi)    Representatives of MLSC; and
(vii)    Tenants and other interested citizens.
(2)    At least three members of the Task Force must be tenants whose income does not exceed 50% of the State median income adjusted for household size.
(c)    The Attorney General shall designate the chair of the Task Force.
(d)    The Office of the Attorney General shall provide staff for the Task Force.
(e)    A member of the Task Force:
(1)    May not receive compensation as a member of the Task Force; but
(2)    Is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.
(f)    The Task Force shall:
(1)    Evaluate the provision of services under this subtitle, including the performance of designated organizations and community groups;
(2)    Study potential funding sources; and
(3)    Make recommendations to improve the implementation of this subtitle, including necessary policy and statutory changes.
(g)    On or before January 1, 2022, and each January 1 thereafter, the Task Force shall report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly.
(h)    The Task Force may apply for grants from public and private entities to carry out the duties of the Task Force.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 9 - Access to Legal Representation in Eviction Cases › Section 8-909 - Access to Counsel in Evictions Special Fund -- Purpose -- Administration -- Special, Nonlapsing Fund -- Fund Contents -- Use of Fund

(a)    There is an Access to Counsel in Evictions Special Fund.
(b)    The purpose of the Fund is to provide funding to fully implement access to legal representation in evictions and other related proceedings in the State.
(c)    MLSC shall administer the Fund.
(d)    (1)    The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(2)    The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(e)    The Fund consists of:
(1)    Money received by the Division of Consumer Protection in the Office of the Attorney General from any final settlement or agreement with or judgment against a party relating to an investigation or enforcement of the Maryland Consumer Protection Act for an unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practice for rental residential property, excluding any restitution and the costs of the action the Attorney General is entitled to recover;
(2)    Money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund;
(3)    Interest earnings of the Fund; and
(4)    Any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.
(f)    The Fund may be used only for:
(1)    Services provided by a designated organization or activity by a community group to implement the Program as provided in this subtitle, including all costs associated with required legal representation in any proceeding and any outreach and education activities;
(2)    If a local jurisdiction enacts a program authorized under this subtitle, services provided by the local jurisdiction to implement access to counsel in eviction proceedings as provided for in this subtitle, including all costs associated with required legal representation in any proceeding and any outreach and education activities;
(3)    Administrative expenses of MLSC; and
(4)    Expenses related to the study and evaluation of:
(i)    Services and activities provided under this subtitle; and
(ii)    Funding amounts and sources necessary to fully effectuate access to counsel in eviction proceedings.
(g)    (1)    The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.
(2)    Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund.
(h)    Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.
(i)    Money expended from the Fund is supplemental to and is not intended to take the place of funding that otherwise would be appropriated for civil legal services from any other source.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 9 - Access to Legal Representation in Eviction Cases › Section 8-910 - Implementation in Phased in Manner -- Priority in Funding -- Subject to Funding

(a)    Legal representation as required under this subtitle shall be phased in over time in a manner that MLSC determines appropriate with the goal of full implementation before October 1, 2025.
(b)    Priority in funding during the phase–in period will be given to tenants in a local jurisdiction that provides or agrees to provide significant additional local funding to effectuate access to counsel in eviction proceedings in the local jurisdiction.
(c)    Access to legal representation under this subtitle is subject to the availability of funding.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Real Property › Title 8 - Landlord and Tenant › Subtitle 9 - Access to Legal Representation in Eviction Cases › Section 8-911 - Representation Provided by Local Jurisdiction -- Allocation of Funding to Local Program

(a)    A local jurisdiction may enact a local law providing for legal representation in eviction proceedings filed in the local jurisdiction.
(b)    If a local jurisdiction enacts a local law under subsection (a) of this section providing for legal representation in eviction proceedings substantially similar to that described in this subtitle, MLSC shall direct funding that would have been allocated under this subtitle for the benefit of that local jurisdiction’s tenants to the local program.