Maryland § 5-102

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 5-102, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 5-102.

    (a)    An action on one of the following specialties shall be filed within 12 years after the cause of action accrues, or within 12 years from the date of the death of the last to die of the principal debtor or creditor, whichever is sooner:

        (1)    Promissory note or other instrument under seal;

        (2)    Bond except a public officer’s bond;

        (3)    Judgment;

        (4)    Recognizance;

        (5)    Contract under seal; or

        (6)    Any other specialty.

    (b)    A payment of principal or interest on a specialty suspends the operation of this section as to the specialty for three years after the date of payment.

    (c)    This section does not apply to:

        (1)    A specialty taken for the use of the State;

        (2)    A deed of trust, mortgage, or promissory note that has been signed under seal and secures or is secured by owner–occupied residential property, as defined in § 7–105.1 of the Real Property Article; or

        (3)    A contract, including a contract under seal, or a promissory note or other instrument under seal that is:

            (i)    Related to an obligation of a consumer to pay consumer debt, as defined in § 5–1201 of this title, that arises from hospital services, as defined in § 19–201 of the Health – General Article; and

            (ii)    Between a consumer and a hospital, as defined in § 19–301 of the Health – General Article.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 5-102

What does Maryland Code § 5-102 cover?

Section 5-102 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 § 5-102?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 5-102" (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 § 5-102 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.