<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<section article="grp" article_name="Real Property" number="8-304" title_number="8" title_name="Landlord and Tenant" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="Distress for Rent">
  <level label="a">
    <text>When an action of distress is filed, the clerk shall issue an order directing the defendant to appear and show cause at a stated time why levy under an action of distress should not be made. The hearing may be not earlier than seven days from date of service on the defendant.</text>
  </level>
  <level label="b">
    <text>In addition, the order shall:</text>
    <level label="1">
      <text>Direct the time within which service of the petition and show–cause order shall be made on the defendant; and</text>
    </level>
    <level label="2">
      <text>Inform the defendant that (i) the defendant may appear at the time stated and present evidence on the defendant’s behalf; and (ii) if the defendant fails to appear, all goods on the leased premises not exempted by law may be levied on and removed by the sheriff.</text>
    </level>
  </level>
</section>
