Cal. Civ. Code § 20-1201
Md. Code Ann., State Gov't Art. Title 20 — Fair Housing and Anti-Discrimination
Operative Text
In this subtitle, “prevailing party” has the meaning as judicially determined under 42 U.S.C. § 1988.
Under Md. Code Ann., State Gov't §§ 20-701 to 20-1204 § 20-1201, Maryland's civil rights enforcement subtitle adopts the federal definition of 'prevailing party' as that term has been interpreted by courts under 42 U.S.C. § 1988. This means that who qualifies as a prevailing party in a housing discrimination case is determined by the same judicial standards applied in federal civil rights litigation. The definition affects which side in a dispute may be eligible to seek attorney's fees or other relief tied to prevailing-party status.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers involved in housing discrimination proceedings under Md. Code Ann., State Gov't §§ 20-701 to 20-1204 § 20-1201 should be aware that the 'prevailing party' standard is drawn from federal civil rights case law under 42 U.S.C. § 1988. Compliant operators generally maintain thorough records of their policies and actions so they are prepared if prevailing-party determinations—and any associated fee awards—become relevant in a proceeding. Understanding this definition helps operators anticipate the potential financial stakes of litigation under Maryland's civil rights subtitle.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Tenants pursuing housing discrimination claims under Md. Code Ann., State Gov't §§ 20-701 to 20-1204 § 20-1201 should know that the definition of 'prevailing party' follows established federal civil rights standards, which courts have interpreted to include parties who achieve a meaningful change in the legal relationship between the parties. This definition can be significant because prevailing-party status may affect eligibility for attorney's fees in a successful case. Tenants who believe they have experienced housing discrimination may consider consulting a tenant-rights organization or legal aid office to understand how this standard could apply to their situation.
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 12, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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