# Human Services (GHU)

## Title 11. Maryland Legal Services Corporation

### Subtitle 7. Prohibited Acts

#### Section 11-701

(a) A person may not obtain, attempt to obtain, or aid another person in obtaining or attempting to obtain legal assistance to which the person is not entitled by:

  (1) willfully making a false statement or representation;

  (2) willfully failing to disclose a material change in financial condition;

  (3) impersonating another; or

  (4) any other fraudulent means.

(b)

  (1) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

  (2)

    (i) A person convicted under this section shall make full restitution of the value of the legal assistance unlawfully received.

    (ii) The person shall be given notice and the opportunity for a hearing on the amount and terms of the payment.

#### Section 11-702

The Corporation may not:

(1) participate in litigation, unless:

  (i) the Corporation or a grantee is a party; or

  (ii) a grantee is representing an eligible client in litigation in which the interpretation of this title or a guideline established by the Corporation under this title is an issue;

(2) interfere with a lawyer's professional responsibilities to clients under the Maryland Rules of Professional Conduct;

(3) compete directly or indirectly with any grantee;

(4) contribute or make available the Corporation's funds or services to a political party or association or the campaign of a candidate for public or party office;

(5) except as provided in Sec.Sec. 501(h) and 4911 of the Internal Revenue Code:

  (i) carry on propaganda or otherwise attempt to influence legislation; and

  (ii) participate or intervene in a political campaign on behalf of a candidate for public office, including publishing or distributing statements;

(6) notwithstanding any other provision of this title, conduct or carry on activities not authorized for an organization:

  (i) qualified under Sec. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; or

  (ii) to which contributions are deductible under Sec. 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code.

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Md. Code Ann., Hum. Servs. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)