Government Shutdown! - Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Furloughed Government Employee in Maryland

The current economic landscape can be a source of stress for many, especially when unexpected events like a government shutdown disrupt your financial stability. If you're a government employee in Maryland facing the threat of eviction or foreclosure due to a lapse in government funding, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options. At Badaki Law Firm, LLC, we are committed to providing compassionate legal guidance to help you through these challenging times.

Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Furloughed Government Employee in Maryland

Maryland law recognizes the unique hardship that government shutdowns place on employees and their families. To provide a critical safety net, the state has enacted specific protections to help you keep your home. Here’s what you need to know about the key provisions:

Stay of Eviction and Foreclosure Proceedings

Under Maryland law, specifically in the Maryland Code, Real Property §§ 8-401(d)(1) and 7-105.1(b-1), a court is required to grant a temporary suspension, or stay, of an eviction or foreclosure action. This protection applies to both residential rental properties and owner-occupied homes.

Important Note: This is not an automatic process. To receive this protection, you must file a motion with the court and provide proof that you are a government employee who has been involuntarily furloughed or is working without pay due to a shutdown.

The court will grant a reasonable stay, which generally cannot exceed 30 days after the shutdown ends. This 30-day window is a critical period for you to get your finances back in order once you receive your back pay.

Who Is Covered by These Protections?

These protections apply to employees of the federal government, the State of Maryland, or any local government within the state. The law is specifically designed to address a "government shutdown," defined as a lapse in government funding that lasts for more than seven consecutive days. These protections are limited to your primary residence and do not cover vacation homes or investment properties.

Additional Resources and Financial Assistance

Navigating a shutdown can be complicated, but you are not without options. In addition to the legal protections, there may be other resources available to you:

• Financial Assistance: The State of Maryland has previously established loan funds and other financial programs to provide assistance to affected employees.

• Unemployment Benefits: You may be eligible to apply for unemployment insurance benefits during the shutdown. Be aware that if you later receive back pay, you will likely be required to repay any unemployment benefits you received.

• Private Companies: Many utility companies and other service providers have their own policies in place to help furloughed workers. It is always a good idea to contact them directly to ask about payment arrangements or waiving late fees.

We Are Here to Help

Dealing with the financial stress of a government shutdown can be overwhelming. At Badaki Law Firm, LLC, we understand the specific challenges you face and have experience helping clients in Hagerstown, Frederick, and Montgomery counties. We can help you with the necessary legal filings and guide you through the process of invoking these protections.

If you are a government employee in Maryland concerned about your housing situation during a shutdown, please contact us today. We provide one-on-one legal guidance to help you navigate this difficult time and find the best path forward.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information provided may not apply to your specific situation. Legal regulations can change, and you should consult with a qualified attorney to address your particular legal needs. This information does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.