The MCPA at a glance
The Maryland Consumer Protection Act, Md. Code, Commercial Law § 13-101 et seq., prohibits unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices in the sale of consumer goods, services, credit, and real property, and in the collection of consumer debts.
- § 13-301 — defines unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices (false statements, omissions of material fact, and more).
- § 13-303 — prohibits those practices in consumer transactions.
- § 13-408 — private right of action for damages and reasonable attorney's fees.
Related Maryland statutes
- Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act — Com. Law § 14-201 et seq.
- Automotive Warranty Enforcement Act (Lemon Law) — Com. Law § 14-1501 et seq.
- Credit Grantor Closed End Credit provisions (CLEC) — Com. Law § 12-1001 et seq.
- Maryland Collection Agency Licensing Act — Bus. Reg. § 7-101 et seq.
Federal statutes
- Fair Debt Collection Practices Act — 15 U.S.C. § 1692
- Fair Credit Reporting Act — 15 U.S.C. § 1681
- Truth in Lending Act — 15 U.S.C. § 1601
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act — 15 U.S.C. § 2301
Where to file a complaint
- Maryland Attorney General — Consumer Protection Division
- Maryland Office of Financial Regulation (collection agencies, lenders)
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
- Maryland Judiciary — court records and self-help
Frequently asked questions
- Who enforces the Maryland Consumer Protection Act?
- The Consumer Protection Division of the Maryland Attorney General's Office enforces it, and § 13-408 also lets injured consumers bring private actions for damages and attorney's fees.
- Do I need to prove the business intended to deceive me?
- Many MCPA violations don't require proof of intent — a misleading representation that has the capacity to deceive can be enough. Some claims involving omissions require knowing concealment.
- Is there a deadline?
- Yes. Maryland generally applies a three-year statute of limitations to MCPA claims, but other deadlines may be shorter. Don't wait.