Housing matters
Landlord–tenant
Housing disputes usually turn on documents and timing. Whether you rent or own the property, the first step is identifying the notice you received, the relief being sought, and the court date involved.
General legal information only, not legal advice. This guide reflects Maryland practice; other states and countries require counsel admitted in that jurisdiction. No attorney-client relationship is created by reading this guide.
Common situations
What this work usually involves
- Failure-to-pay-rent and eviction proceedings
- Security deposit disputes and move-out condition
- Repairs, habitability, and retaliation concerns
- Lease termination and holdover issues
- Subsidized housing and voucher matters
Step by step
A practical sequence
- 1
Read the notice and identify its type
Notices differ in purpose and legal effect. Note the date served, the deadline stated, and the amount or conduct alleged.
- 2
Keep a dated paper trail
Save the lease, notices, rent receipts, and photos of conditions. Send important communications in a way that creates a record.
- 3
Do not ignore a court date
Failure to appear can result in a judgment or a writ of possession. Contact the court and counsel immediately if you cannot attend.
- 4
Understand what is being requested
Money judgments, possession, and repair orders are different remedies. Clarify what the other side is asking the court to do.
Preparation
What to gather
- Lease and any addenda
- Every notice received, with dates
- Rent payment records and receipts
- Photographs and maintenance requests
Do not send documents or sensitive details until the team confirms a secure process.
Selective intake
Tell us what you are facing.
Send a short, non-sensitive note about the general topic. The team reviews every inquiry for fit, jurisdiction, and conflicts.
Do not include confidential facts, documents, or sensitive personal information. Sending an inquiry does not create an attorney-client relationship or mean a matter has been accepted.