McLaughlin, James

Maryland Public Information Act

Md. Ann. Code art. GP, § 4-101

The Maryland Public Information Act is a series of laws designed to guarantee that the public has access to public records of government bodies at all levels in Maryland. Public records are defined by the Code of Maryland as documents in any form, made or received by a public body which pertain to government business.

According to the Maryland Public Information Act, any person or governmental unit can make public records requests unless it is otherwise indicated by statute. There are not any requirements concerning a statement of purpose, however, if the custodian of the records decides that inspection would go against the public interest, he/she may deny the record for up to ten days. The use of criminal records for the solicitation of legal services is prohibited by law. The department has 30 days to either grant or deny the request.