(a)      There is established in the State of Maryland a nonstock corporation which shall be known as "The Maryland Legal Services Corporation" for the purpose of receiving and distributing funds to grantees that provide legal assistance in noncriminal proceedings or matters to eligible clients.

      (b)      The Corporation shall maintain its principal office in the State and shall maintain a designated agent to accept service of process for the Corporation whose name and address shall be filed with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation.

      (c)      The Corporation is exempt from all special and property taxes and from recordation tax and transfer taxes imposed by the State or any political subdivision thereof.

      (d)      Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, the Corporation is not a department, agency, or instrumentality of the State.