(a) A person may not: (1) make or cause to be made a groundless or malicious complaint to the Commissioner or an authorized representative of the Commissioner; (2) in bad faith, bring an action under this subtitle or a proceeding related to the subject of this subtitle; or (3) in bad faith, testify in an action under this subtitle or a proceeding related to the subject of this subtitle. (b) The Commissioner shall investigate any allegations that a person has violated any provision of this section. (c) (1) If the Commissioner determines that a person has violated any provision of this section, that person may be subject to an administrative penalty of up to $1,000, assessed by the Commissioner. (2) A sanction under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be subject to the notice and hearing requirements of § 3–906 of this subtitle. (3) If the person found in violation of this section is a person alleged to be employed by the respondent, the Commissioner shall disclose the identity of the complainant. (d) Any person who must defend an action taken as a result of a groundless or malicious complaint may be entitled to recover attorneys’ fees.
Maryland Legal Code