<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<section article="gcp" article_name="Criminal Procedure" number="12-203" title_number="12" title_name="Forfeiture -- Controlled Dangerous Substances Violations" subtitle_number="2" subtitle_name="Seizure">
  <level label="a">
    <text>Property seized under this title is in the custody of the seizing authority, and, unless returned to the owner as provided in subsection (c) of this section or § 12–207 of this subtitle, is subject only to the orders, judgments, and decrees of the court or the official having jurisdiction over the property.</text>
  </level>
  <level label="b">
    <text>A seizing authority may place seized property under seal and remove the property to a place designated by the court.</text>
  </level>
  <level label="c">
    <level label="1">
      <text>The owner of seized property may make a written request to the seizing authority for the return of the seized property.</text>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>Within 60 days after receipt of a written request under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the seizing authority shall make a decision as to the disposition of the seized property and shall notify the owner that:</text>
      <level label="i">
        <text>the seizing authority does not have custody of the property and shall provide contact information for the law enforcement agency that does have custody of the property;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="ii">
        <text>the seizing authority does have custody of the property and will file a complaint for forfeiture;</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iii">
        <text>the seizing authority does have custody of the property and will retain it for evidentiary purposes until after the conclusion of a criminal case; or</text>
      </level>
      <level label="iv">
        <text>the seizing authority does have custody of the property and will promptly return the property to the owner.</text>
      </level>
    </level>
  </level>
</section>
