Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Maryland

Often a two party debt will have both debtors jointly & severally liable - that means that each person is fully responsible for payment. The debtors might have claims against each other if one pays more than their fair share but usually can't escape paying just because the other party is not. Much depends on the specifics of the note/debt, so look at the paperwork and seek an attorney review if unclear. Note that Maryland law does offer certain exemptions, so if the creditor attempts garnishment/collections, each debtor may be able to exempt certain property.

The above offers general legal information and should not substitute for an attorney review of the specifics of your situation. This post does not create an attorney-client relationship or offer specific legal advice.

While the creditor cannot collect more than the full amount owed, it can collect that sum from either or both people responsible for a debt. If it collects more than half from you, you may have a claim for contribution from the co-debtor.