Maryland § 5-839
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 5-839, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-839.
(a) (1) The Ethics Commission or any other aggrieved person may:
(i) file a petition for injunctive or other relief in the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County to require compliance with this part; and
(ii) assert as error any violation of this part in judicial review requested under § 22–407 of the Land Use Article.
(2) The Court shall issue an order voiding an official action taken by the County Council if:
(i) the action taken by the County Council was in violation of this part; and
(ii) the legal action was brought within 30 days after the occurrence of the official action.
(3) The Court, after hearing and considering all the circumstances in the case and voiding an action of the County Council, shall reverse, or reverse and remand, the case to the District Council for reconsideration.
(b) (1) A person who knowingly and willfully violates this part is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or both.
(2) If the person is a business entity and not a natural person, each officer and partner of the business entity who knowingly authorized or participated in the violation is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to the same penalties as the business entity.
(3) A member is guilty of violating this part only if the member fails to abstain from voting or participating in a proceeding, based on information contained in an affidavit filed with the County Council by an applicant or agent, in violation of § 5–835(b) of this subtitle.
(4) An action taken in reliance on an opinion of the Ethics Commission may not be deemed a knowing and willful violation.
(c) (1) A person who is subject to this part shall preserve all accounts, bills, receipts, books, papers, and other documents necessary to complete and substantiate any reports, statements, or records required to be made under this part for 3 years from the date of filing the application.
(2) The documents shall be available for inspection on request of the Ethics Commission after reasonable notice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 5-839
What does Maryland Code § 5-839 cover?
Section 5-839 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 § 5-839?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 5-839" (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 § 5-839 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.