Second Look Act · Enacted
Maryland Second Look Act: what it does and when it starts
Maryland's Second Look Act lets people who were 18 to 24 when they committed their offense ask a judge to reduce their sentence after serving 20 years. It took effect October 1, 2025.
Maryland Second Look Act: start date
October 1, 2025
date reached
Currently scheduled start date (has changed before in some states) · Source: Maryland General Assembly · Last checked: 2026-10-15
What changes
- For people who were 18 to 24 at the time of the offense.
- Can petition after serving 20 years.
- A judge decides; it is a chance at review, not automatic release.
How credits are figured (general)
- Confirm age at the time of the offense (18-24).
- Find when custody began; add 20 years for the earliest petition date.
- Talk to a post-conviction attorney about the petition.
Timeline
- Second Look Act takes effect.
FAQ
Who qualifies for Maryland's Second Look Act?
People who were 18 to 24 at the time of the offense and have served at least 20 years.
Is release automatic?
No. A judge reviews the petition and decides.
What to do now
- Ask the facility case manager for the official time computation.
- Keep court paperwork and program certificates.
Scam warning: Beware of anyone charging fees to "apply" credits or guaranteeing release.
Rule version
| Law | Second Look Act (2025) |
|---|---|
| Citation | Md. Code, Crim. Proc. §8-110 |
| Effective | In effect since October 1, 2025 |
| Version | 2025.1 |
| Last verified | 2026-10-15 |
Maryland updates
Primary sources
Plain-English summary, not legal advice. The official text controls.