Facing drug charges in Prince George’s County? At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys we know it can be stressful to find a good experienced drug crime defense lawyer to evaluate your options, call us today at (301) 262-7005 and our crime defense attorneys will help you handle it.
Whether it’s your first arrest or you’ve had prior experience with the courts, drug charges can bring serious penalties that have lasting effects on your life. You might be unsure of your options and how you can protect yourself legally. Fortunately, you don’t have to handle it alone, contact us today to receive a free consultation.
How Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help if You’re Arrested for Drug Crimes
Drug charges in Prince George’s County, MD, are serious and should never be taken lightly. The best way to defend yourself is to work with a Prince George’s County criminal defense attorney. Here’s how our team can assist:
- We’ll carefully examine how police obtained evidence against you, questioning any improper searches or violations of your rights that may weaken the prosecutor’s case.
- Our lawyers have experience negotiating plea deals for lesser charges, reduced penalties, or alternative sentencing options like drug treatment programs instead of jail.
- We’ll look closely at your case to find legal defenses that give you a chance of avoiding a conviction if the case goes to trial.
No matter what type of charges you’re facing in Prince George’s County, Maryland, we can help. Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Prince George’s County drug crimes lawyer.
Overview of Drug Crimes in Maryland
In Maryland, drug offenses revolve around substances known as controlled dangerous substances (CDS), which are divided into five categories. Penalties depend on the specific drug and the quantity involved. Common drug charges include:
- Drug possession: Drug possession refers to having CDS without a valid medical or legal reason. Small amounts of marijuana – less than 10 grams – can be treated differently if you are 21 or older. Larger quantities or more harmful drugs typically bring stricter penalties.
- Trafficking/possession with intent to distribute: Maryland law forbids distributing or selling controlled substances unless you’re licensed to do so. Simply having enough drugs to suggest you plan to sell them can lead to charges, along with producing these substances or owning equipment meant for distribution. These offenses are taken very seriously and can result in lengthy prison terms.
- Paraphernalia: It is illegal to possess, sell, or deliver drug paraphernalia. Items related to drug use, sale, or production can be considered drug paraphernalia under Maryland law. There’s no official list of items that count as paraphernalia, so courts look at the context, like leftover residue in an item, to decide if something was used for illegal purposes.
If you’re facing drug charges in Maryland, it’s important to consult with an attorney who can explain your legal options and help you navigate these serious matters.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Crimes in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Penalties for drug crimes in Maryland can vary based on the specific substance, its amount, and whether you have past convictions. Below are some examples of common charges and their possible punishments:
- Drug possession: A first possession offense can lead to up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. If the substance is more dangerous or you have a history of offenses, the penalties can increase.
- Drug distribution: Selling or distributing drugs like cocaine or MDMA for the first time can carry a prison term of up to 20 years and a fine as high as $15,000. If heroin or fentanyl is involved, you might face an additional 10 years on top of the original sentence.
- Drug trafficking: Bringing controlled substances into Maryland is a felony, which can result in as many as 25 years behind bars and a $50,000 fine. The state considers transporting drugs into its jurisdiction a serious offense.
- School zone offenses: Possessing, selling, or planning to distribute drugs within 1,000 feet of a school or school bus is punished even more harshly. A first offense can bring a mandatory minimum of 20 years in prison, and a second offense can mean an added 5-year sentence.
- Aggravating factors: Carrying weapons during drug sales, selling to minors, or having a criminal record can trigger higher penalties.
Knowing how Maryland handles drug crimes can help you better prepare for what lies ahead.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Drug Crimes?
If you’re facing drug charges, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, several defenses may apply, depending on the facts of your arrest and the type of substance involved. Common legal defenses include the following:
- Constructive possession: In some cases, drugs are discovered in shared spaces, like a car or apartment. When this happens, you can challenge whether there’s proof that you actually knew about the drugs or had any power over them. If there’s no evidence you were even aware of these substances, this could lead to an acquittal. Testimony from others, plus details about the scene, can help show you had nothing to do with possessing those drugs.
- Unlawful search and seizure: Police must follow certain rules when searching individuals, cars, or homes. If they overstep these rules by searching without a valid warrant or probable cause, the evidence found might be excluded by a judge. An attorney can look for holes in the police report, such as missing documentation or contradictions in the officers’ statements. If the court agrees that the evidence came from an illegal search, it may not be used against you, significantly weakening the prosecutor’s case.
- Incorrect or missing evidence: Sometimes, the substances officers seize end up being tested improperly, or there’s a mix-up in the chain of custody. An attorney can demand proof that the material found is, in fact, an illegal drug. If the state can’t show clear evidence of its nature or value, their case may fall apart. Even small errors in paperwork, labeling, or handling can make a difference.
- No intent to sell: Police often assume that having a large quantity of drugs proves an intent to sell or distribute. They may also look for items like baggies, scales, or large amounts of cash. If those things aren’t found or you can explain why you had the substance and how it was really just for personal use, it challenges the claim you were dealing drugs. While you could still end up being convicted of drug possession, this is much less serious than a conviction for selling or manufacturing illegal substances.
- Treatment over jail time: Some people facing drug charges struggle with addiction and need treatment rather than incarceration. Certain courts offer programs that emphasize recovery and counseling instead of a jail sentence. If you qualify, you might avoid serving a long prison term by agreeing to attend drug treatment programs. This can help you address the underlying issues without facing the harshest punishments.
Choosing the right defense can make a big difference in how your case is handled. Speak with a criminal defense lawyer for help.
Facing drug charges in Prince George’s County, MD, can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember you have rights and options. By taking time to understand the laws in Maryland, you give yourself a chance to make informed decisions about your defense. No matter how challenging your situation seems, help is available. Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Prince George’s County drug crimes lawyer.