We have a tenant in Baltimore Co.,MD who has asked for an eviction letter ot seek help (money) from social services? Does anyone know if this is legal or do we just pursue the old fashion way of going to court? I am trying to avoid court and will be offering them a peace offer to leave. Hope I do not have to evict but I am not familiar and have never had to evict in Baltimore Co before. Any help is appreciated. Thank-you, Tricia

State Specific Question About: MARYLAND (MD)

"Does anyone know if this is legal or do we just pursue the old fashion way of going to court?"

Anything you might write to him that doesn't ALSO show that you filed "the old fashioned way" won't do him any good from anyone other than a do-gooding sucker that doesn't know better.

Do them and yourself a favor and tell the guy you have NO CHOICE but to file it the old fashioned way.

Visit him in person when you do this, bring a friend and a camera... start looking over and documenting the condition of the unit, take pictures of problems.

If this tenant is really up against the wall without a place to go you might have a protracted eviction process until he is finally out. Try to feel it out and if this is the case then consider a "cash for keys" (pay him something to leave soon) to resolve quickly.

I used to have people ask for this also. Turns out that the 7-day Pay or Quit notice is actually enough in our area now -- so I just serve that in a timely fashion (which is the first step of eviction anyhow) and they can take that in.

If your local social services requires more, then I would only follow the normal procedures. Start eviction and they can try to take that in when they get the official paperwork served by the court...

- John...

if i remember correctly, 5 day notice in wisconsin was enough...