Maryland § 7-504
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 7-504, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 7-504.
(a) A defendant who is unable to pay a fine ordered by a court may apply to the court for a reduction of the fine.
(b) If a defendant fails or is unable to pay a fine as ordered by a court, the court may investigate the reasons for the failure or inability to pay the fine, including the defendant’s financial and family situation and whether nonpayment of the fine is contumacious or is due to indigence.
(c) After an investigation that a court considers necessary as to the reasons for the failure or inability to pay a fine, the court:
(1) May order that the individual be committed to a correctional facility;
(2) May reduce the fine to an amount that the court determines the defendant is able to pay; or
(3) Subject to subsection (d) of this section, may direct that the individual be imprisoned until payment of:
(i) The fine; or
(ii) Part of the fine that is undischarged after a pro rata credit for time served instead of payment.
(d) (1) Subject to the limitations in this subsection, the court shall determine the period of imprisonment for default in payment of a fine.
(2) The period of imprisonment may not exceed:
(i) 1 day for each $10 of the fine; and
(ii) If the fine was imposed for a crime subject to punishment by imprisonment, one-third of the maximum term authorized by the statute or ordinance under which the individual was convicted, or 90 days, whichever is less; or
(iii) If the fine was imposed for a crime that is not subject to punishment by imprisonment, absent default in payment of a fine, 15 days.
(3) The period of imprisonment, when added to the original sentence, may not exceed the maximum term of imprisonment allowed for the crime.
(4) Each period of imprisonment imposed because of nonpayment of two or more fines shall run concurrently unless the court specifies that the periods of imprisonment shall run consecutively.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 7-504
What does Maryland Code § 7-504 cover?
Section 7-504 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 7-504?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 7-504" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 7-504 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.