If you are a defendant facing drug charges in Frederick, Maryland, it’s important to have a lawyer by your side. A criminal defense attorney can help you understand the legal process and protect your rights. They will guide you through each step, from initial consultations to navigating complex court proceedings. This is the best way to protect yourself from serious legal and personal consequences.
If you need help with a criminal matter, we’re here for you. Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys at (301) 381-1993 to schedule a free consultation with a Frederick drug crimes lawyer.
How Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help If You’re Arrested for Drug Crimes in Frederick, MD
If you’re facing drug crime charges in Frederick, MD, the best thing you can do is reach out to a criminal defense lawyer right away.
Here’s how our team can help you:
- We will keep you updated every step of the way on what you can expect from your case.
- Our attorneys negotiate directly with prosecutors to pursue reduced drug charges or alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs or rehabilitation when appropriate.
- We can build a strong defense by challenging illegal searches and seizures of controlled substances, questioning improper procedures during arrests, or scrutinizing the accuracy of drug testing equipment and evidence handling.
- If we aren’t able to get you a plea deal that you are happy with, we will fight for you at trial.
If you have any questions about drug charges in Frederick, Maryland, reach out today. Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Frederick criminal defense lawyer.
Overview of Drug Crimes in Maryland
Maryland drug charges cover a range of offenses. Understanding what each charge entails can help you better navigate the legal process.
Possession of a Controlled Substance
If you are found with illegal drugs on your person, the charge of possession applies. This offense covers situations where the drug is meant for personal use and not for the intent to sell it.
Trafficking
Drug trafficking involves selling, transporting, or distributing illegal substances. You can be charged with this based on behavior and the amount of drugs in your possession, even if you aren’t seen trafficking or selling the substance.
Manufacturing
Producing or cultivating illegal drugs, such as methamphetamine or marijuana, falls under manufacturing offenses.
Prescription Fraud
Engaging in prescription fraud, like illegally obtaining drugs, forging prescriptions, or doctor shopping, can lead to criminal charges. This offense takes place when someone tries to acquire controlled substances without proper authorization.
Drug Paraphernalia
Charges related to drug paraphernalia focus on the possession, sale, or distribution of items designed for drug use, such as pipes or syringes. Even if you are not caught with drugs, this charge can still apply if you have tools associated with drug consumption.
Being aware of each type of drug charge is important when facing allegations in Maryland, as it helps you understand the situation and how to prepare your defense.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Crimes in Frederick, Maryland?
The penalties for drug crimes in Frederick, Maryland, can vary widely. Your exact charges and sentence depend on the type and seriousness of the offense. Here is an overview of possible penalties for different drug-related crimes.
Penalties for Possession of Controlled Substances
If you’re charged with simple possession, you could face a misdemeanor charge with penalties that might include fines and even jail time. However, if you’re caught with larger quantities of drugs like cocaine, crack, or heroin, the charges may be more severe, with the potential for lengthy imprisonment and major fines.
Penalties for Possession With Intent to Distribute
When there is evidence that you intended to distribute drugs, you could be charged with a felony. These charges often come with significant fines and come with mandatory minimum sentences, leaving little room for leniency. In some cases, you could face up to 40 years in prison, depending on the drug, amount, and your criminal history.
Penalties for Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking charges are among the most serious. Convictions in this area may result in lengthy prison terms—in some cases, from 20 years all the way up to life in prison—and significant fines. Courts may also order the forfeiture of assets connected to the trafficking activities.
Penalties for Manufacturing or Cultivation
If you’re involved in producing or cultivating drugs such as methamphetamine or marijuana, you could face harsh penalties. Convictions for these offenses may lead to up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
Penalties for Prescription Drug Crimes
Criminal charges related to misusing, distributing, or fraudulently obtaining prescription drugs can carry significant punishments. Offenders in these cases might face heavy fines along with imprisonment, depending on the specifics of the case.
Penalties for Paraphernalia Possession
Simple possession of drug paraphernalia, like pipes or syringes, may result in fines that can go up to $500. For subsequent offenses, jail time is possible.
Maryland Marijuana Laws and Penalties
For marijuana-related crimes, the penalties are determined by the amount in question. If you possess less than 10 grams, the offense is considered a civil violation with fines of up to $100. Possessing cannabis in an amount that indicates an intent to distribute or dispense cannabis is a misdemeanor. Offenders face up to three years of incarceration and a fine of up to $5,000.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for Drug Crimes?
When facing drug charges, several legal defenses may play a role in protecting your rights and challenging the evidence against you.
Common examples include:
Challenging the Legality of the Search and Seizure
This defense questions whether law enforcement followed proper procedures during their investigation. If they failed to obtain a valid warrant and lacked probable cause, any evidence gathered could be thrown out. By challenging the legality of the search, you weaken the prosecution’s case.
Questioning the Reliability of Witness Testimonies
Witnesses in drug cases may sometimes provide inconsistent or misleading accounts of events. This defense focuses on proving that their testimony is unreliable or biased. Bringing inconsistencies to light can create reasonable doubt about the events in question.
Examining the Chain of Custody of the Alleged Drugs
The chain of custody is the process that tracks evidence from the scene to the courtroom. If there are any breaks or errors in this process, it can cast doubt on whether the evidence can be trusted. A broken chain of custody may result in the evidence being deemed inadmissible.
Mistaken Identity
This defense argues that you are not the person who committed the offense. It involves showing evidence that someone else may have been responsible for the actions attributed to you.
No Possession
This defense focuses on showing that you did not have possession or control over the substance. If you can prove that the drugs were present in a common area accessible to multiple people, it may challenge the claim that they belonged to you.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With a Frederick Drug Crimes Attorney
Facing drug charges in Frederick, Maryland, can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Our experienced lawyers are here to help guide you through this challenging time. If you need advice or have questions about your case, you can reach out to our team. We’re committed to standing by your side and fighting for your rights. Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Frederick drug crimes attorney.
