Second Look Act update - 2025

Call us today to discuss the Second Look Act! Attorney James Johnston can be reached directly at

410-824-1427

Great news for many people serving long sentences and their families– the Second Look Act passed and was signed into law by Governor Moore! Here are a few key points:

1) The law is effective October 1, 2025. Beginning that date, an eligible person can file a request for a hearing.

2) If you’re eligible, the court MUST schedule a hearing, unlike other commons options for sentence review such as a motion to modify sentence or a petition for drug treatment (Health General 8-505/507).

3) You are eligible if you were:

• Under 25 years of age but over 17 years at the time of the offense

• Not serving a life without parole sentence

• Not a sex offender

• Were not involved in a homicide that caused the death of a police officer, firefighter or other first-responder;

• And you’ve served 20 years day-for-day in prison on that charge.

Otherwise, the bill mirrors the Juvenile Restoration Act, with the court required to consider various factors such progress in prison and mental health evaluations to determine if the person poses a threat to public safety. The court has the power to release a person or to otherwise reduce their sentence.

The bill can be found here:

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2025RS/bills/hb/hb0853T.pdf