§ 5-210. Soliciting business

   (a) Definitions. --

   (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

   (2) "Agent" means a person that acts or is authorized to act as the representative of a bail bondsman.

   (3) (i) "Bail bondsman" means a licensed limited surety agent or a licensed professional bail bondsman.

      (ii) "Bail bondsman" does not include a person that contracts with a public agency to provide bail bonds to persons detained in a correctional facility.

(b) Prohibited acts. -- On the grounds of a courthouse or correctional facility, a bail bondsman, an agent of a bail bondsman, an employee of the courthouse, or an employee of a correctional facility may not:

   (1) approach, entice, or invite a person to use the services of a specific bail bondsman;

   (2) distribute, display, or wear an item that advertises the services of a bail bondsman; or

   (3) otherwise solicit business as a bail bondsman.

(c) Penalties. -- A person who violates subsection (b) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to:

   (1) a fine not exceeding $ 2,500, and if licensed in accordance with the Insurance Article, a 30-day license suspension for a first offense; and

   (2) a fine not exceeding $ 5,000, and if licensed in accordance with the Insurance Article, a 90-day license suspension for a subsequent offense.

(d) Referral to Insurance Commissioner. -- A person convicted of a violation of subsection (b) of this section shall be referred to the Insurance Commissioner for appropriate action.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 27, § 616 1/2A; 2001, ch. 10, § 2; 2012, ch. 383.