If you are facing a marijuana charge in Maryland, it is essential to know what to expect. Maryland has legalized medical marijuana and decriminalized possession of small amounts of marijuana. However, possession and distribution of large amounts of marijuana are still illegal and can result in serious consequences.
Here’s what you can expect during a marijuana charge in Maryland:
Arrest and Booking
If you are caught with marijuana in Maryland, the police can arrest you and take you to the police station for booking. During booking, the police will take your personal information and take your fingerprints and photographs. They will also conduct a search of your belongings and seize any drugs or drug paraphernalia found.
Bail Hearing
After booking, you will have a bail hearing where a judge will decide whether to release you on bail or keep you in custody. The judge will consider various factors such as your criminal record, the severity of the offense, and the risk of flight. If you are granted bail, you will need to pay a certain amount of money to secure your release.
Court Appearance
You will need to appear in court for your arraignment, where you will be formally charged and enter a plea. If you plead guilty, the judge will set a date for sentencing. If you plead not guilty, the case will go to trial.
Sentencing
If you are found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence. The sentence can include fines, community service, probation, or imprisonment. The severity of the sentence depends on the amount of marijuana found and whether you have any prior convictions.
Facing a marijuana charge in Maryland can be a stressful and confusing experience. It is important to seek legal advice and understand your rights. If you are caught with marijuana, remember to stay calm, cooperate with the police, and avoid incriminating yourself. By knowing what to expect, you can better prepare for the legal process and minimize the impact on your life.
Possession vs. Distribution
It is important to understand the difference between possession and distribution of marijuana in Maryland. Possession refers to having marijuana for personal use, while distribution refers to selling, giving, or transporting marijuana. The penalties for distribution are much more severe than possession, and can include a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison for certain amounts.
Medical Marijuana
In Maryland, medical marijuana is legal for patients with qualifying conditions. However, patients must have a valid medical marijuana card and can only possess a certain amount of marijuana at a time. If you are a medical marijuana patient, it is important to keep your card and paperwork up-to-date and follow all legal requirements.
Legal Representation
If you are facing a marijuana charge in Maryland, it is important to seek legal representation. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal system, negotiate a plea deal, or represent you in court. They can also help you understand your rights and options, and work to minimize the consequences of the charge.
Facing a marijuana charge in Maryland can be a complex and daunting process. It is important to understand the legal system and your rights, and seek legal representation if necessary. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can better protect yourself and minimize the impact of a marijuana charge on your life.
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys is a law firm in Maryland that specializes in criminal defense, including marijuana charges. If you are facing a marijuana charge in Maryland, the firm can help you in several ways:
Legal Advice: The attorneys at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys can provide legal advice and guidance on your marijuana charge. We can explain the charges against you, your legal rights, and the potential consequences.
Investigation: The firm can investigate the circumstances of your arrest and gather evidence to build a strong defense. We can review police reports, witness statements, and other evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Plea Bargaining: The attorneys can negotiate with the prosecution to reduce or dismiss your charges. We can work to secure a plea deal that minimizes the penalties and consequences of the charge.
Trial Representation: If your case goes to trial, the attorneys at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys can provide skilled trial representation. We can present a strong defense and challenge the prosecution’s evidence and arguments.
Contact the Criminal Defense Attorneys at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys in Maryland for Help Today
For more information, contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a confidential consultation with a criminal defense attorney. Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, Waldorf, Annapolis, and Lexington Park, Maryland.
We proudly serve Prince George’s County, Frederick County, Montgomery County, Charles County and the surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys – Lanham Office
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste 201 Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 262-7005
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys – Frederick Office
25 E Patrick St #200 Frederick, MD 21701
(301) 381-1993
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys – Rockville Office
11140 Rockville Pike 550-J Rockville, MD 20852
(301) 364-3195
Available 24/7