Maryland § 3-401

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 3-401, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 3-401.

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

    (b)    “Deprive” means to withhold property of another:

        (1)    permanently;

        (2)    for a period that results in the appropriation of a part of the property’s value;

        (3)    with the purpose to restore it only on payment of a reward or other compensation; or

        (4)    to dispose of the property or use or deal with the property in a manner that makes it unlikely that the owner will recover it.

    (c)    “Obtain” means:

        (1)    in relation to property, to bring about a transfer of interest in or possession of the property; and

        (2)    in relation to a service, to secure the performance of the service.

    (d)    (1)    “Property” means anything of value.

        (2)    “Property” includes:

            (i)    real estate;

            (ii)    money;

            (iii)    a commercial instrument;

            (iv)    an admission or transportation ticket;

            (v)    a written instrument representing or embodying rights concerning anything of value, or services, or anything otherwise of value to the owner;

            (vi)    a thing growing on, affixed to, or found on land, or that is part of or affixed to any building;

            (vii)    electricity, gas, and water;

            (viii)    a bird, animal, or fish that ordinarily is kept in a state of confinement;

            (ix)    food or drink;

            (x)    a sample, culture, microorganism, or specimen;

            (xi)    a record, recording, document, blueprint, drawing, map, or a whole or partial copy, description, photograph, prototype, or model of any of them;

            (xii)    an article, material, device, substance, or a whole or partial copy, description, photograph, prototype, or model of any of them that represents evidence of, reflects, or records a secret:

                1.    scientific, technical, merchandising, production, or management information; or

                2.    designed process, procedure, formula, invention, trade secret, or improvement;

            (xiii)    a financial instrument; and

            (xiv)    information, electronically produced data, and a computer software or program in a form readable by machine or individual.

    (e)    “Robbery” retains its judicially determined meaning except that:

        (1)    robbery includes obtaining the service of another by force or threat of force; and

        (2)    robbery requires proof of intent to withhold property of another:

            (i)    permanently;

            (ii)    for a period that results in the appropriation of a part of the property’s value;

            (iii)    with the purpose to restore it only on payment of a reward or other compensation; or

            (iv)    to dispose of the property or use or deal with the property in a manner that makes it unlikely that the owner will recover it.

    (f)    “Service” includes:

        (1)    labor or professional service;

        (2)    telecommunication, public utility, toll facility, or transportation service;

        (3)    lodging, entertainment, or restaurant service; and

        (4)    the use of computers, data processing, or other equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 3-401

What does Maryland Code § 3-401 cover?

Section 3-401 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 § 3-401?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 3-401" (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 § 3-401 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.