Maryland § 16-401
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 16-401, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-401.
(a) A person may not willfully and knowingly:
(1) give, transfer, promise, or offer anything of value for the purpose of inducing another person to sign or not sign any petition;
(2) request, receive, or agree to receive, anything of value as an inducement to sign or not to sign any petition;
(3) misrepresent any fact for the purpose of inducing another person to sign or not to sign any petition;
(4) sign the name of any other person to a petition;
(5) falsify any signature or purported signature to a petition;
(6) obtain, or attempt to obtain, any signature to a petition by fraud, duress, or force;
(7) circulate, cause to be circulated, or file with an election authority a petition that contains any false, forged, or fictitious signatures;
(8) sign a petition that the person is not legally qualified to sign;
(9) sign a petition more than once; or
(10) alter any petition after it is filed with the election authority.
(b) Each violation of this section shall be considered a separate offense.
(c) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to the penalties provided in Subtitle 10 of this title.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 16-401
What does Maryland Code § 16-401 cover?
Section 16-401 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 § 16-401?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 16-401" (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 § 16-401 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.