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Ellicott City Drug Attorney

Being in a situation that requires an Ellicott City drug lawyer is never pleasant, no matter how you spin it. Not all of these cases are successfully prosecuted, however. Police and prosecutors throughout Maryland file hundreds and hundreds of drug charges each year, but quality legal representation can limit your exposure to criminal drug charges. If you find yourself the subject of drug charges of any kind, it’s imperative that you find a dedicated criminal defense attorney that can guide you through the criminal justice process. Our team will work with you to find the best possible outcome for your case, and can do his or her best to help keep your professional standing intact and your legal status untarnished.

When you are facing drug charges, it is important to know that someone is looking out for your best interests. You need legal representation who can explain Maryland’s drug laws to you and will work to get you a positive outcome for your situation. It is important to have someone on your side fighting for your rights and making sure the law is not being misapplied.

Maryland Marijuana Drug Laws

The most common drug law violations in Maryland over the past few years have been related to the use, possession, and distribution of marijuana. The law will vary according to the amount of the drug found in the defendant’s possession at the time of the arrest, which will be a major factor in determining whether you are prosecuted as a user or a dealer. If you are caught with over 10 grams of marijuana, the maximum punishment is typically a $1,000 fine and one year in prison. If you are caught with less than 10 grams, you face a maximum $500 fine and 90 days in jail.

While it may seem that all is lost if you have been arrested with a large amount of marijuana in your possession, your lawyer may be able to get your charges reduced if police did not handle your arrest and booking according to Maryland law and proper police arresting procedures. While marijuana cases are the most common ones that Ellicott City drug attorneys handle, there are many other types of drugs that are targeted and prosecuted as well.

Other Drugs in Maryland

While marijuana charges take up the majority of Ellicott City drug cases that our attorneys handle, the next largest target in the so-called war on drugs in Maryland is cocaine and/or opium. A little more than half of all drug charges in Maryland involved marijuana; and the majority of non-marijuana cases were cocaine and opium related. Cocaine, opium, and other drugs such as methamphetamines carry severe penalties, including fines as high as $25,000 and four years in jail for first time offenders.

It is important to understand the distinction between personal use and intent to distribute when it comes to drug charges. Ellicott City drug lawyers can help you determine that distinction, so that you are able to navigate the criminal justice system armed with all the facts. A good drug defense lawyer can tell you what to expect from the prosecution based on the amount of the drug found on your person at the time of the arrest. Most personal-use drug charges are prosecuted as misdemeanors, but additional factors can lead to a felony conviction, which carries more significant punishment. For statistical information on Maryland’s drug use, as compared to national averages, see this page published by the Trust for America’s Health.

Intent to Sell Drugs

If you are faced with intent to sell charges and looking for a drug lawyer in Ellicott City, you need to know the legal guidelines and the possible penalties. The manufacture, sale, or distribution of a narcotic can lead to 20 years in jail and a $25,000 fine. If the substance in question is LSD or PCP, it will also result in up to 20 years in jail and a $20,000 fine. These terms are for first time offenders. If you have a second conviction, it warrants another 20 years in jail and $25,000 fine, and third offenses lead to 25 years in jail and a $100,000 fine. The state takes drug charges very seriously, so the assistance of a lawyer is necessary to navigate this very complicated arena.

Maryland Laws for Drug Paraphernalia

If your arrest involves drug paraphernalia, it is important to note that drug paraphernalia is strictly prohibited in Maryland. Simple possession is a misdemeanor, but can still lead to fines of up to $2,000 and time in jail. Distributing paraphernalia to minors can lead to a harsher penalty of eight years in jail and a $15,000 fine.

Work With an Ellicott City Drug Attorney

When you have a need for an Ellicott City drug lawyer, it is important to know that the person who takes your case will take it seriously and do his best to win it for you. Call Kush Arora Attorney at Law today to request a free consultation; we will listen to you and tell you what you should expect moving forward.

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