How to Seal an Eviction Record in Maryland

If you have faced eviction in Maryland, you may worry that your eviction record could make it hard to find new housing or rebuild your rental history. Fortunately, Maryland renters have options to ask the court to seal an eviction record, offering a path to a fresh start. This guide explains who can seal an eviction record in Maryland, which forms to use, and what steps to expect—so you can move forward with confidence.

What Does Sealing an Eviction Record Mean?

Sealing an eviction record means that your eviction case is hidden from public view, so most future landlords and background check companies can no longer access it. In Maryland, sealing (sometimes called expungement) is decided by a judge and is only available in specific situations, such as certain dismissed or older cases.

When Can a Maryland Renter Seal an Eviction Record?

Maryland allows many renters to request sealing for eviction cases that meet certain requirements. In general, you may qualify if:

• Your eviction case was dismissed (you won, or the landlord dropped the case)
• The judgment was entered three or more years ago and you have paid any money you owed
• The court finds a "good cause"—for example, the eviction was due to domestic violence or another protected reason

Each situation is unique, so it can be helpful to review your eligibility or talk with a legal aid service before applying.

How to Ask the Court to Seal Your Eviction Record

Sealing an eviction record requires filing a formal request (called a "Motion to Shield" in Maryland court). You must follow the steps carefully for the court to consider your application.

Official Form: Motion to Shield Court Records (DC-CV-116)

• Form Name and Number: Motion to Shield Court Records (DC-CV-116)
• When and How to Use: Use this form after your eviction case is resolved. For example, if your landlord filed to evict you but you won the case in court, you may use this form to ask that the record be shielded (sealed) from public view. You can download it, fill it out with your case details, and file it with the court that handled your eviction.
• Link: Download Motion to Shield Court Records (DC-CV-116)

Where to File and What Happens Next

• File your Motion to Shield using your local Maryland District Court, where your eviction case was decided.
• The court may schedule a hearing. Be prepared to explain why you are eligible for record shielding.
• If your landlord disagrees, they can object, and the judge will hear both sides.
• The judge decides whether to grant or deny your motion. If granted, your eviction record will no longer be publicly accessible.

Relevant Tribunal and Legislation

• Tribunal: Maryland District Court (Visit Maryland District Court)
• Key Law: Maryland Real Property Code § 8-401
• Shielding of court records for landlord-tenant cases is covered in the law and official Landlord-Tenant Shielding guidance.

Step-by-Step: Sealing an Eviction Record in Maryland

Follow these clear steps to request the court to seal your eviction record:

• Obtain your case number and all related documents from the court's records.
• Download and fill out the Motion to Shield Court Records (DC-CV-116).
• Submit the completed form to the District Court that handled your eviction.
• Wait for notice of a hearing date and prepare your evidence or explanation.
• Attend the hearing if required and answer the judge’s questions. The court will decide if your record can be sealed.

Sealing your eviction record can make renting easier in the future, but you must follow each step carefully to give your request the best chance of success.

FAQ: Maryland Eviction Record Sealing

1. Who can apply to seal an eviction record in Maryland?
   Most renters can apply if their case was dismissed, they won, enough time has passed, or there’s good cause. Details depend on your case outcome and history.
2. What is the difference between sealing and expunging an eviction record?
   In Maryland, "shielding" is used instead of "expungement." Shielding hides the record from public view, while expungement means the record is destroyed. Most eviction records can only be shielded, not destroyed.
3. How long does it take to have an eviction record sealed?
   It usually takes several weeks, depending on court schedules and whether a hearing is needed.
4. Can I seal an eviction record if I still owe rent or fees?
   No. You must pay all court-ordered amounts before you qualify to have your record sealed.
5. Will sealing an eviction record remove it from all databases?
   If granted, the court record is hidden from public view, but it may take some time for private databases and background check providers to update.

Key Takeaways

• Maryland law allows many renters to seal (shield) eligible eviction records using official forms.
• The process involves court paperwork, and often a hearing, at your local District Court.
• Shielding a record improves your chances for future renting, but you must meet strict criteria and pay all outstanding court-ordered amounts.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland People's Law Library – Shielding Landlord-Tenant Records
• Maryland Courts Self-Help Services (phone, chat, and walk-in help)
• Maryland District Court Locations and Contacts
• Maryland Legal Aid (free legal advice for eligible renters)
• Maryland Courts Landlord & Tenant Help Center

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1. Maryland Real Property Code § 8-401
2. Motion to Shield Court Records (DC-CV-116) – Maryland Courts
3. Maryland District Court
4. Landlord-Tenant Shielding Guidance – Maryland Courts

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