Section 5-1019 - Powers of State's Attorney. - Maryland Statutes

§ 5-1019. Powers of State's Attorney.
 

(a)  In general.- Before or after a complaint is filed under this subtitle, the State's Attorney may hold a pretrial inquiry. 

(b)  Summons; oaths; witnesses; evidence.- In connection with any pretrial inquiry under this section, the State's Attorney may: 

(1) issue a summons that requires a person, other than the alleged father, to appear, to testify, and to produce documents connected with the examination; 

(2) administer oaths; 

(3) examine witnesses; and 

(4) receive evidence. 

(c)  Sanctions for failure to appear or obey.-  

(1) If a person fails to obey a summons, or fails to testify or comply with a request of the State's Attorney, the State's Attorney may request the circuit court for the county to order the person: 

(i) to obey the summons; 

(ii) to testify; or 

(iii) to produce any document that the court considers necessary for the inquiry. 

(2) If a person fails or refuses to obey the order of court after the order has been served, the person is in contempt of court and the court may punish the person for the contempt. 

(3) A finding of contempt under this subsection is subject to appeal. 
 

[An. Code 1957, art. 16, § 66D; 1984, ch. 296, § 2.]