# Business Occupations and Professions (GBO)

## Title 10. Lawyers

### Subtitle 4. Investigation of Unauthorized Practice; Injunctive Action

#### Section 10-401

The Attorney General may investigate, as provided in this subtitle, a complaint of an unauthorized practice of law.

#### Section 10-402

(a)

  (1) Each investigation conducted under this subtitle is confidential.

  (2) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person who participates in an investigation may not disclose the name of a person under investigation, the name of a witness, or any other information obtained in the investigation.

(b) A person who participates in an investigation may disclose information to:

  (1) the person under investigation; and

  (2) a person to whom disclosure is required in the discharge of an official duty.

#### Section 10-403

Whenever the Attorney General conducts an investigation under this subtitle, the Attorney General shall provide to the person under investigation:

(1) a written statement that specifies the conduct under investigation; and

(2) an opportunity to be heard and to present evidence on the conduct under investigation.

#### Section 10-404

(a) In an investigation under this subtitle, the Attorney General, a deputy attorney general, or any assistant attorney general whom the Attorney General designates may:

  (1) issue a subpoena for the attendance of a witness to testify or the production of evidence;

  (2) administer oaths; and

  (3) examine witnesses.

(b) The laws that relate to civil actions govern the attendance and compensation of witnesses in an investigation under this subtitle.

(c) If a person fails to comply with a subpoena or refuses to testify about a material matter, on petition of the Attorney General, a circuit court may compel compliance with the subpoena.

#### Section 10-405

In an investigation under this subtitle, an officer of the State or of a political subdivision of the State or a deputy, clerk, or employee of the officer shall provide the information and help requested by the Attorney General, a deputy attorney general, or any assistant attorney general whom the Attorney General designates.

#### Section 10-406

(a) The Attorney General or Bar Counsel appointed under Maryland Rule 16-712 may sue to enjoin an unauthorized person from practicing, attempting to practice, or offering to practice law.

(b)

  (1) If the Attorney General brings an action under this section, Bar Counsel may intervene for good cause at any stage of the proceeding.

  (2) If Bar Counsel brings an action under this section, the Attorney General may intervene for good cause at any stage of the proceeding.

#### Section 10-407

The remedies and procedures set forth in this subtitle are in addition to and not in substitution for other remedies and procedures that address the unauthorized practice of law.

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Md. Code Ann., Bus. Occ. & Prof. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)