The Maryland Judiciary, in collaboration with the Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS), has produced two new educational videos aimed at assisting homeowners in understanding the foreclosure process. These videos, titled "The Foreclosure Process" and "Foreclosure Mediation," are designed to inform homeowners about foreclosure proceedings and mediation.
"The Maryland Judiciary is committed to advancing access to justice for all Marylanders. Through these new videos, Maryland homeowners will gain a better understanding of the legal process, terminology, and options that may be available to them should they face foreclosure proceedings," stated Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera. She emphasized that the content of these videos is specifically tailored for individuals facing foreclosure who may not have the means to afford legal representation or prefer self-representation.
These resources are part of the Maryland Judiciary's online self-help video library, My Laws, My Courts, My Maryland. The library aims to provide clarity on complex legal principles and procedures for anyone who accesses it.
According to a July report by RealtyTrac, Inc., Maryland ranks third in the U.S. for foreclosure rates as of July 2016, an improvement from its previous position as second-highest in June. The report also notes a 33 percent decrease in properties receiving foreclosure filings since July 2015.
Bonnie Sullivan, executive director of MVLS, highlighted their role during the national foreclosure crisis beginning in 2008. "Since the national foreclosure crisis began in 2008, MVLS has been the largest pro bono legal services provider in a statewide foreclosure prevention project," she said. MVLS organizes monthly clinics and provides assistance through trained volunteer lawyers and staff attorneys across key regions like Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County.
Established in 1981, MVLS offers free civil legal services through experienced volunteer lawyers to low-income residents across Maryland. More information about their services can be found at www.mvlslaw.org.
Each video comes with printable tip sheets for easy reference. For further details on these resources or other inquiries related to the Maryland Judiciary's initiatives, Pamela Ortiz can be contacted at 410-260-1258 or via email at [email protected].