# Health - General (GHG)

## Title 10. Mental Health Law

### Subtitle 10. Prohibited Acts; Penalties; Civil Liability

#### Section 10-1002

(a) A person may not:

  (1) Knowingly make a false application or certificate in connection with the admission or detention of any individual; or

  (2) Detain an individual in a manner contrary to Subtitle 6 or Subtitle 8 of this title.

(b) A person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or both.

(c) In addition to any other penalties specified in this section, a person who willfully violates any provision of this section is liable for civil damages sustained by the individual who is admitted or detained unlawfully.

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Md. Code Ann., Health-Gen. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)