Maryland Laws

This page summarizes ten Maryland laws people ask about most, with a link to the full guide for each. Every guide cites the state statute or an official source. Laws change, so check the current statute or talk to a local attorney before you act.

Maryland Personal Injury Statute of Limitations

In Maryland, you generally have 3 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101). If you miss the deadline, the court will usually dismiss the case. Different deadlines can apply to medical malpractice, wrongful death and claims against government agencies.

Read the full personal injury statute of limitations guide →

Maryland Comparative Negligence Laws

Maryland follows contributory negligence. If you are even slightly at fault for your own injury, even 1%, you generally cannot recover damages from the other party. It is one of only a handful of jurisdictions that still use this strict rule.

Read the full comparative negligence laws guide →

Maryland Minimum Wage in 2026

The Maryland minimum wage is $15.00 per hour, above the federal $7.25. When state and federal rates differ, employees are entitled to the higher rate. Overtime at one and a half times the regular rate generally applies after 40 hours in a workweek.

Read the full minimum wage guide →

Maryland Final Paycheck Laws

In Maryland, an employer must pay final wages to a fired employee: next regular payday. The same deadline applies if you quit. If wages are late or missing, you can file a wage claim with the state labor department or go to court.

Read the full final paycheck laws guide →

Maryland Small Claims Court Limits

In Maryland, you can sue for up to $5,000 in small claims court, which is handled by the District Court (small claims). Small claims cases are faster and cheaper than regular lawsuits, and most people represent themselves. If your claim is larger, you must file in a higher court or give up the excess.

Read the full small claims court limits guide →

Maryland Security Deposit Laws

Maryland security deposit limit: 1 month's rent (since October 1, 2024). The landlord must return the deposit, minus lawful deductions, within this deadline: 45 days. Landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear, and tenants can usually sue in small claims court if a deposit is wrongly withheld.

Read the full security deposit laws guide →

Maryland Eviction Notice Requirements

If rent is unpaid in Maryland, the landlord must generally give a written notice before filing an eviction case: 10 days' written notice before filing. Only a court can order an eviction; a landlord cannot change the locks, remove belongings or shut off utilities to force a tenant out.

Read the full eviction notice requirements guide →

Maryland Small Estate Affidavit

Maryland small estate limit: no affidavit; small estate administration through the Register of Wills for estates up to $50,000 ($100,000 if the spouse is the sole heir). Waiting period after death: none set. Real estate: handled by the personal representative. A small estate process lets heirs collect property without a full probate case.

Read the full small estate affidavit guide →

Does Maryland Recognize Common Law Marriage?

No. Maryland does not recognize common law marriages formed in Maryland. Most states generally recognize a marriage that was valid where it was formed, so a common law marriage created in a state that allows it may still be recognized.

Read the full common law marriage guide →

Maryland Divorce Residency Requirements

To file for divorce in Maryland: no minimum if the grounds arose in Maryland; 6 months if they arose elsewhere. Waiting period: none for mutual consent or irreconcilable differences. You must still be able to show domicile, for example with a driver's license, voter registration or lease.

Read the full divorce residency requirements guide →

This page summarizes state law for general information and is not legal advice. Laws change and courts interpret them; check the current statute or official source, or talk to a licensed attorney in your state about your situation.

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