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Am I breaking the law by letting a fugitive stay at my house?

Am I breaking the law by letting a fugitive stay at my house?

Q: Can I get in trouble for hiring an unlicensed contractor in Maryland?

Yes, hiring an unlicensed contractor in Maryland can lead to legal trouble. Homeowners may face penalties, including fines, for employing someone without the necessary licenses. It's important to verify a contractor's licensing status to avoid potential legal issues and ensure compliance with state regulations.

Q: What is the penalty for an unlicensed contractor in Maryland?

In Maryland, unlicensed contractors can face significant penalties, including fines up to $1,000 per violation. Additionally, they may be subject to civil penalties and could lose the right to pursue payment for services rendered. It's crucial for contractors to obtain the necessary licenses to avoid these consequences.

Q: How to report an unlicensed contractor in Maryland?

To report an unlicensed contractor in Maryland, you can contact the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). They handle complaints regarding unlicensed contractors and can investigate the matter. Providing detailed information about the contractor and the situation will assist in the investigation process.

Full question:

If a person failed to appear in criminal court in Baltimore County (MD)in 2005 for posing as a contractor without a license and failure to complete contract and a warrant was issued, am I breaking any laws by letting him stay at my house?

Category: Criminal
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Maryland

Answer:

Harboring a fugitive means knowingly hiding someone wanted by law enforcement. Laws about this vary by state. In Maryland, you could be violating the law if you harbor someone after knowing a felony warrant has been issued for them.

Under Maryland law (Md. Code, Crim. Law § 9-402), it is illegal to harbor a fugitive to prevent their arrest if you know about the warrant and that harboring is a crime. This applies if the person is avoiding prosecution, custody, or confinement after a felony conviction.

If you are aware of the warrant and still allow the person to stay, you may be committing a misdemeanor, which could result in up to one year in jail or a fine of up to one thousand dollars, or both.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Can a contractor be criminally charged in Maryland?

Yes, a contractor can be criminally charged in Maryland for various offenses, including operating without a license. If a contractor poses as licensed while unlicensed, they may face charges related to fraud or misrepresentation. Additionally, failure to complete a contract can also lead to legal consequences, including potential criminal charges depending on the circumstances.

Can I get in trouble for hiring an unlicensed contractor in Maryland?

How long do you go to jail for failure to appear in Maryland?

In Maryland, the penalty for failure to appear in court can vary. Generally, if convicted, an individual may face up to 60 days in jail for a misdemeanor charge. However, specific circumstances and prior offenses can influence the length of the sentence. It's advisable to consult with a legal professional for guidance on individual cases.