How to Challenge Illegal Evictions in Maryland

If you’re renting in Maryland and think you’re facing an illegal eviction, it can feel overwhelming. Maryland law offers important protections for renters, ensuring landlords must follow due legal process before asking you to leave. This guide clears up what illegal eviction looks like, what your rights are, and exactly how to respond, with links to the official Maryland forms and agencies you might need.

What Is an Illegal Eviction in Maryland?

In Maryland, an eviction is considered illegal if your landlord tries to remove you without properly following the legal process. Common illegal eviction actions include:

• Changing the locks without a court order
• Forcing you out or removing your belongings
• Turning off utilities to pressure you to leave
• Issuing an eviction notice without following the required steps under Maryland law

Landlords cannot evict you on their own—only a court can order an eviction. This process is outlined in the Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-401.^[1]

Your Rights as a Maryland Renter

Maryland law protects renters from unlawful eviction. Your landlord must:

• Provide a written eviction notice, unless the lease specifies otherwise
• File a "Failure to Pay Rent" or "Tenant Holding Over" complaint in District Court
• Obtain a court order before removing you from the unit

Common Legal Eviction Processes

Most legal evictions in Maryland happen for reasons such as non-payment of rent, holding over after a lease ends, or violation of lease terms. Even then, landlords must follow strict steps starting with court filings and hearings before you can be told to leave.

How to Respond to an Illegal Eviction Attempt

If your landlord tries to evict you without a court order, take these steps immediately:

• Gather evidence (photos, communication records, witnesses)
• Contact local law enforcement if you are locked out
• Notify your landlord in writing that the eviction is illegal and ask to restore your access
• Consider filing an emergency complaint with the District Court

The Maryland District Court is responsible for handling landlord-tenant disputes, including eviction cases. Visit the Maryland District Court locator to find your local courthouse.^[2]

Important Official Forms for Maryland Renters

• Motion for Emergency Relief (No standard form number):
  • When to use: If you are illegally locked out or your landlord shuts off utilities without a court order. This asks the court to restore your access or services.
  • How to use: File this motion at your local District Court. Attach any evidence of the illegal eviction.
  • General District Court Motion Form
• Failure to Pay Rent – Landlord's Complaint (Form DC-CV-082):
  • When it's used: Landlords must file this with the court to start a legal eviction for nonpayment. If your landlord hasn’t done this, any eviction is likely illegal.
  • View official complaint form
• Tenant’s Answer to Complaint (Form DC-CV-108):
  • When to use: If you’ve been summoned to court, use this to present your defense and explain any illegal actions by your landlord.
  • Answer to Complaint form

Action Steps: What To Do If You Face an Illegal Eviction

• Document everything – photos, notes, correspondence
• Contact law enforcement or call 911 if you’re locked out
• File a motion for emergency relief in District Court
• Attend any court hearing and bring all documentation
• Reach out to Maryland tenant support resources for guidance

FAQ: Fighting Illegal Eviction in Maryland

1. Can my landlord evict me without going to court in Maryland?
   No. All evictions in Maryland must go through the court system. Your landlord cannot legally evict you without a court order.
2. What should I do if I am locked out by my landlord?
   Contact the police for help re-entering your home, and file a motion for emergency relief in District Court right away.
3. Can my landlord shut off utilities to force me out?
   No. Landlords cannot interrupt utility services to pressure you to leave. This is considered illegal eviction under state law.
4. Where do I submit a complaint about illegal eviction?
   File motions and complaints with your local Maryland District Court. You can find locations on the official court directory.
5. What if I can’t afford a lawyer?
   Maryland offers free or low-cost legal aid and tenant resources listed below—help is available even if you can’t pay.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Courts – Eviction Resources: Official guidance on tenant rights and forms
• Maryland District Court Landlord-Tenant Info: Filing and defending against eviction
• Maryland Legal Help: Legal aid and free support services for renters
• Find Your District Court to file or check on your eviction case
• Emergency Shelter and Hotline: Dial 2-1-1 for local crisis housing help

---

1. [1] Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-401 – Eviction Procedure
2. [2] Maryland District Court – Court Directory

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations