Cal. Civ. Code § 8-304
Md. Code Ann., Real Property Art. Title 8 — Landlord and Tenant
Operative Text
(a) 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. (b) In addition, the order shall: (1) Direct the time within which service of the petition and show–cause order shall be made on the defendant; and (2) 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.
Under Maryland Real Property § 8-304, when a landlord files a distress action (a legal proceeding to seize a tenant's property for unpaid rent), the court clerk must issue a show-cause order requiring the tenant to appear at a hearing no sooner than seven days after being served. The order must specify the deadline for service and notify the tenant of their right to appear and present evidence. If the tenant does not appear, the sheriff may be authorized to levy on and remove any non-exempt goods located on the leased premises.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Maryland Real Property § 8-304 establishes a court-driven process for distress actions, meaning landlords who pursue this remedy do so through the court clerk rather than through self-help. A compliant operator ensures that the show-cause order is properly served on the tenant within the timeframe the court specifies, and understands that the hearing cannot be scheduled fewer than seven days from the date of service. Property managers generally maintain accurate records of lease terms and unpaid amounts, as these form the basis of any petition filed under this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Maryland Real Property § 8-304 gives tenants the right to receive formal notice and to appear at a court hearing before any levy on their belongings can proceed. The show-cause order must inform tenants that they may present evidence on their own behalf at the hearing, and the hearing cannot be held fewer than seven days after they are served. Tenants who receive such an order may consider contacting a local tenant-rights organization or legal aid office to understand what evidence or defenses may be relevant to a show-cause hearing under this provision.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 14, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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