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CR 7-205: Failure to Return a Rental Vehicle in Maryland

In Maryland, CR 7-205 makes it a crime to abandon, refuse, or willfully neglect to return a rental vehicle at the end of the agreed rental period. If you are facing charges under this law, it is crucial to understand your rights and potential defenses.

What is CR 7-205: Failure to Return a Rental Vehicle?

Under CR 7-205, a person who leases or rents a motor vehicle under an agreement to return it at the end of the rental period may not:

• Abandon the vehicle
• Refuse to return the vehicle
• Willfully neglect to return it

Unlike a simple civil dispute with a rental company, failure to return a rental vehicle under this statute is a criminal offense that can result in serious consequences.

Legal Requirements Before Prosecution

A person cannot be prosecuted under CR 7-205 if they return or account for the vehicle within five days of receiving a written demand. The demand must be:

• Mailed by regular mail and certified mail, return receipt requested
• Sent to the last known address of the person who leased or rented the vehicle
• A prosecution cannot start until five days after the demand has been mailed

Penalties for Failure to Return a Rental Vehicle in Maryland

A violation of CR 7-205 is classified as a misdemeanor, with potential penalties including:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• A fine of up to $500
• Both jail time and a fine in severe cases

Although this is a misdemeanor, a conviction can lead to a criminal record that may affect future employment and rental opportunities.

Legal Defenses Against a Failure to Return a Rental Vehicle Charge

If you are charged under CR 7-205, a Maryland criminal defense lawyer may use several defenses, such as:

• Lack of Intent - If you did not intentionally refuse or neglect to return the vehicle, you may not be guilty of this offense.
• Return Within the Grace Period - If you returned or accounted for the vehicle within five days of receiving the written demand, you cannot be prosecuted.
• Miscommunication or Rental Agreement Issues - Some cases involve billing disputes or rental company administrative errors.
• Inability to Return Due to Emergency - If an emergency prevented the return of the vehicle, this may be a valid defense.

How a Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help

If you are facing charges under CR 7-205, an attorney can:

• Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges
• Challenge the prosecution�s evidence to prove lack of intent
• Fight for a dismissal or acquittal in court if necessary

If you�ve been charged with failure to return a rental vehicle, contact FrizWoods Criminal Defense today for a free consultation.

Related Resources

• How to Beat a Failure to Return a Rental Vehicle Charge