Maryland Drug Crimes Defense
Facing a drug offense charge can be a difficult situation with challenging consequences that can affect your livelihood and create a criminal record. From marijuana possession to the distribution of narcotics, Maryland has some of the country's harshest sentences for drug crimes. A conviction can impact your career, living arrangements, and personal life.
Types of Drug Offenses
Our legal team can help you in a number of ways, such as asking for charges to be reduced to simple possession to lessen the consequences, or requesting the opportunity for you to enter a drug education diversion program. We provide a strong defense for a wide range of drug-related charges, including:
- Possession of Marijuana and Other Narcotics: As of July 2023, recreational marijuana is legal in Maryland. However, possession of over 1.5 ounces of cannabis is a misdemeanor punishable by law. Possession of other illegal substances such as cocaine, fentanyl, or methamphetamines can still lead to fines and jail time.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID): The distribution of scheduled narcotics is a felony in Maryland with serious penalties. For example, possessing less than 50 pounds of marijuana with intent to distribute can result in a fine of up to $15,000 and up to five years in prison.
- Drug Crimes and Firearms: Using a weapon while drug trafficking is a crime in Maryland. If the state can show a connection between a firearm and drug trafficking, you could be found guilty of a felony with a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of 20 years for a first violation.
- Drug Crimes Near a School: Committing a drug crime within 1,000 feet of a school is a very serious offense. Penalties can include up to 20 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. This applies to drug possession and drug paraphernalia, regardless of whether school was in session.
Protecting Your Rights
Not all drug arrests have probable cause and may be unconstitutional. Law enforcement officers must follow strict protocols when searching you, your home, vehicle, or personal belongings to avoid violating your rights. A seasoned criminal defense lawyer understands the case law in Maryland and can work to suppress evidence found during an unlawful search or arrest. If your rights were violated, there is a strong chance your charges may be dismissed.
As a former prosecutor, Caroline Norman Frost has seen many cases where a police officer violated a person's Fourth Amendment rights, forcing the state to dismiss all charges. She understands that these situations are stressful and will use every available resource to defend your rights. If you have been charged with a drug crime, no matter the extent, you need to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
