Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Maryland

It sounds like you are being sued by someone in Maryland District Court, which is the court for lower dollar claims (as opposed to Circuit Court, which is for higher dollar claims). If you file a notice of intention to defend, you will be entitled to a "Merit Trial," which means the plaintiff must prove their claim against you in court. If you don't file anything, and don't show up for the court date, a judgment will be entered against you solely on the complaint and affidavit filed by the plaintiff -- they won't even have to show up. Depending on the amount of the claim, and whether you have any defenses, you will probably want to consult a lawyer. A lwayer may be able to help you work out a deal with the plaintiff and avoid taking a judgment, which has harmful effects for your credit, among other things. Feel free to email me directly with questions -- [email protected].

Good luck.