Maryland Secretary of State Charities and Legal Services – Annapolis, MD

Charities and Legal Services Division

Division Overview

The Charities and Legal Services Division, part of the Office of the Maryland Secretary of State, acts as the primary regulator for charitable organizations in the state. Located in the Fred L. Wineland Building (Jeffrey Building) on Francis Street, this office ensures transparency and accountability in charitable giving. They manage the registration of charities, professional solicitors, and fundraising counsels to protect the public from fraud. ⚖️

Key Functions

• Charity Registration: Reviews and processes annual financial reports from thousands of charities. 📝
• Maryland Charity Campaign (MCC): Administers the annual workplace giving program for state employees and retirees. 🎁
• Notary Public: Oversees the commissioning and regulation of notaries public in Maryland. ✍️
• Legal Services: Handles extraditions, pardons, and service of process for the state. 📜

Public Resources

The division maintains a searchable online database where citizens can verify the status and financial health of a charity before donating. They also investigate complaints regarding unethical fundraising practices. 🔍