Maryland § 8-2003
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 8-2003, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-2003.
(a) Whenever a person is halted by a regular or special police officer for an offense on publicly owned watershed property punishable as a misdemeanor and which is either a violation of law or a violation of watershed regulations, and is not taken before a District Court commissioner as would otherwise be required or is permitted by law, the officer may prepare a written or electronic citation containing:
(1) A notice to appear in court;
(2) The name and address of the person charged;
(3) The offense charged;
(4) The time and place the person shall appear in court;
(5) An acknowledgment of receipt of the citation by the person charged made in a manner determined by the Department; and
(6) Other pertinent information as necessary.
(b) The time specified in the notice to appear shall be at least five days after the alleged violation unless the person charged with the violation demands an earlier hearing.
(c) The place specified in the notice to appear shall be before a judge of the appropriate District Court.
(d) The person charged with the violation may promise to appear in court by acknowledging receipt of at least one copy of the citation prepared by the officer in a manner determined by the Department, in which event the officer shall deliver a copy of the citation to the person. Then, the officer may not take the person into physical custody for the violation.
(e) Failure to comply with the notice to appear is punishable as contempt or as otherwise provided by law in such cases.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 8-2003
What does Maryland Code § 8-2003 cover?
Section 8-2003 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 § 8-2003?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 8-2003" (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 § 8-2003 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.