Maryland § 8-403
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 8-403, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-403.
(a) A debtor who possesses personal property that is subject to a security interest may not secrete, hypothecate, destroy, or sell the property or remove the property from the county where it was located when the security interest attached:
(1) without the written consent of the secured party or the secured party’s assignee; and
(2) with the intent to defraud the secured party.
(b) (1) A debtor who possesses personal property that is under levy pursuant to a writ of execution may not remove, secrete, hypothecate, destroy, or sell the property or remove the property from the county where it was located when the levy was made:
(i) without the prior written consent of the judgment creditor, the judgment creditor’s lawfully authorized agent, or the judgment creditor’s assignee; and
(ii) with intent to defraud the judgment creditor or the judgment creditor’s assignee, and defeat the lien of the judgment creditor or the judgment creditor’s assignee under the levy.
(2) This subsection does not relieve the sheriff or other officer making the levy from responsibility to the judgment creditor for safekeeping personal property taken into possession by the sheriff or other officer making the levy.
(c) A seller of personal property who possesses the personal property under a recorded bill of sale may not remove, secrete, hypothecate, destroy, or sell the property or remove the property from the county where it was located when sold:
(1) without prior written consent in the contract of the buyer or the buyer’s assignee; and
(2) with intent to defraud the buyer.
(d) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or a fine not exceeding $500 or both.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 8-403
What does Maryland Code § 8-403 cover?
Section 8-403 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 § 8-403?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 8-403" (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 § 8-403 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.