§8–904.

    (a)    (1)    Under the Program, MLSC shall provide for access to legal representation by a covered individual for a judicial or administrative proceeding to:

            (i)    Evict or terminate the tenancy or housing subsidy of a covered individual; or

            (ii)    Repossess the premises of a covered individual under Title 8A of this article.

        (2)    The access to legal representation under paragraph (1) of this subsection includes the first appeal of a decision in the proceeding if the designated organization determines that there are sufficient legal grounds for the appeal.

    (b)    (1)    Under the Program, a designated organization shall ensure that a covered individual receives access to legal representation by an attorney in a proceeding as required under this subtitle as soon as possible after:

            (i)    A landlord provides notice to terminate a tenancy;

            (ii)    The initiation of an eviction proceeding; or

            (iii)    The determination by a designated organization that a proceeding related to a constructive eviction on behalf of a covered individual should be initiated.

        (2)    If feasible, legal representation required under this subsection should begin no later than the time of the covered individual’s first appearance in a proceeding.

    (c)    MLSC may contract with a designated organization to provide all or part of the services required under this section.