(a) Under the Program, MLSC shall provide for access to legal representation by a covered individual for a judicial or administrative proceeding to evict or terminate the tenancy or housing subsidy of a covered individual, including the first appeal of a decision in the proceeding if the designated organization determines that there are sufficient legal grounds for the appeal.
(b) (1) Under the Program, a designated organization shall ensure that a covered individual receives access to legal representation by an attorney in a proceeding as required under this subtitle as soon as possible after:
(i) A landlord provides notice to terminate a tenancy;
(ii) The initiation of an eviction proceeding; or
(iii) The determination by a designated organization that a proceeding related to a constructive eviction on behalf of a covered individual should be initiated.
(2) If feasible, legal representation required under this subsection should begin no later than the time of the covered individual’s first appearance in a proceeding.
(c) MLSC may contract with a designated organization to provide all or part of the services required under this section.