1. (a) Under the Program, MLSC shall provide for access to legal representation by a covered individual for a judicial or administrative proceeding to evict or terminate the tenancy or housing subsidy of a covered individual, including the first appeal of a decision in the proceeding if the designated organization determines that there are sufficient legal grounds for the appeal.

2. (b)

   1. (1) Under the Program, a designated organization shall ensure that a covered individual receives access to legal representation by an attorney in a proceeding as required under this subtitle as soon as possible after:

      1. (i) A landlord provides notice to terminate a tenancy;
      2. (ii) The initiation of an eviction proceeding; or
      3. (iii) The determination by a designated organization that a proceeding related to a constructive eviction on behalf of a covered individual should be initiated.
   2. (2) If feasible, legal representation required under this subsection should begin no later than the time of the covered individual's first appearance in a proceeding.
3. (c) MLSC may contract with a designated organization to provide all or part of the services required under this section.

Added by Acts 2021, c. 746, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2021.