Maryland § 8-5A-01

§ 8-5A-01.

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

    (b)    “Abuse” has the meaning stated in § 4–501(b) of the Family Law Article.

    (c)    “Legal occupant” means an occupant who resides on the premises with the actual knowledge and permission of the landlord.

    (d)    “Offender” means a person who commits an act of abuse.

    (e)    “Peace order” means an enforceable final peace order.

    (f)    “Protective order” means an enforceable final protective order.

    (g)    “Qualified third party” means:

        (1)    A physician who is authorized to practice medicine under the Health Occupations Article;

        (2)    A psychologist who is authorized to practice psychology under the Health Occupations Article;

        (3)    A social worker or caseworker of any public or private health or social services agency or provider; or

        (4)    An advocate from a domestic violence or sexual assault prevention or assistance program.

    (h)    “Report by a qualified third party” means a report based on information received by a qualified third party while acting in a professional capacity that:

        (1)    Indicates that the tenant or a legal occupant is seeking assistance as a result of an act of abuse;

        (2)    Includes the following elements:

            (i)    The name of the tenant or legal occupant;

            (ii)    A statement that the tenant or legal occupant is a victim of abuse;

            (iii)    The date, time, location, and a brief description of the incident;

            (iv)    The name and physical description of the alleged offender, if known;

            (v)    The name and address of the employer of the qualified third party;

            (vi)    The licensing entity and license number of the qualified third party, if the qualified third party is required to be licensed; and

            (vii)    The signature of the qualified third party, under seal of a notary public; and

        (3)    Is signed and acknowledged by the tenant or legal occupant under penalty of perjury.