Frederick Drug Lawyer
Maryland takes drug violations very seriously. If someone is convicted of distribution, they could be facing felony charges. A felony conviction can result in the loss of your right to vote, your right to possess a firearm, and, can result in a loss of opportunities as well.
Anyone accused of a drug offense will need the immediate help of an experienced Frederick drug lawyer. An adept criminal lawyer can work towards a positive outcome for you. En Español.
Drug Offenses in Maryland
The severity of a Maryland drug offense typically depends upon the type and amount of drug involved in the alleged crime.
Possession of a controlled substance – except for marijuana – in Maryland is a misdemeanor punishable by up to four years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
Marijuana Possession
Marijuana possession carries less severe penalties in Maryland than other types of controlled substances, and the penalties vary based on how much marijuana the accused held in their possession.
The offense of possessing more than 10 grams of marijuana carries a penalty of up to $1,000 in fines and up to one year in jail. Possessing 10 grams or less of marijuana is punishable by up to $100 in civil fines.
For persons who do not have a history of criminal or drug convictions and who possessed one ounce or less of marijuana, Maryland allows certain affirmative defenses to mitigate penalties.
An experienced Frederick drug lawyer who handles marijuana possession cases can determine whether any affirmative defenses for marijuana possession may be available.
Distribution of Controlled Substance
Distribution of a controlled substance is typically a more serious offense than simply possessing the same controlled substance. The level of severity of penalties for distribution of a controlled substance depends on the type or level of controlled substance involved in the offense.
Distributing a schedule I or II level narcotic is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and $25,000 in fines. Subsequent offenses bring about heightened penalties. For instance, a second conviction for distributing a high-level narcotic is punishable by up to $100,000 in fines and between 10 and 20 years in prison. A fourth subsequent offense carries a penalty of a mandatory minimum 40 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.
Distributing lower-level controlled substances carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and $15,000 in fines. A Frederick drug lawyer can work to mitigate penalties that the defendant may face.
Volume Drug Dealing Penalties
Possessing more than a certain amount of a controlled substance can also bring about a charge of so-called volume-dealing, which is levied in addition to the charge of possession, distribution, or manufacturing. An experienced Frederick drug lawyer can analyze the facts of the case, including the amount of drug involved, and determine whether the accused may face additional charges for volume dealing of a controlled substance.
Enhanced Penalties in Maryland Drug Cases
Certain circumstances can trigger enhanced penalties in Maryland drug cases. Some examples of factors that bring about additional or heightened penalties include:
- Possessing with intent to distribute or distributing near a school
- Using a minor in the commission of a drug crime
- Using a dangerous weapon in the commission of a drug crime
- Importing drugs into Maryland and other drug-trafficking offenses
Consult an Experienced Frederick Drug Attorney
No matter what type of drug offense you are accused of committing, a skilled Frederick drug lawyer can help protect your reputation and fight to keep your record clear. Whether you are facing a first-time drug offense or have prior drug convictions, it is wise to have an experienced Frederick drug lawyer on your side.