Statutes: Maryland

In general 

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

 

Abuse

(b) “Abuse” has the meaning stated in § 4-501(b) of the Family Law Article.

 

Legal occupant

(c) “Legal occupant” means an occupant who resides on the premises with the actual knowledge and permission of the landlord.

 

Offender

(d) “Offender” means a person who commits an act of abuse.

 

Peace order

(e) “Peace order” means an enforceable final peace order.

 

Protective order

(f) “Protective order” means an enforceable final protective order.

 

Qualified third party

(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.

 

Report by a qualified third party

(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.