Were you arrested for drug possession in Rockville, MD? Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys can help. With 125 years of combined experience, our team knows how to challenge illegal searches, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight for your defendants’ rights both in and out of court.
Drug charges can have serious consequences, and you don’t want to take them lightly. If you’re facing charges, we can help you build a strong defense. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation at (301) 364-3195 with a Rockville drug crimes lawyer.
Why Choose Alpert Schreyer to Help Me if I’m Arrested For Drug Possession in Maryland?
If you’re facing drug possession charges in Rockville, Maryland, you need a defense team that stands out for its experience and commitment. Here’s why so many clients place their trust in the Rockville drug possession attorneys at Alpert Schreyer:
- Over 300 Five-Star Google Reviews: Our reputation is built on client satisfaction and positive outcomes for people across Maryland facing criminal charges.
- Available 24/7 for Your Peace of Mind: We answer calls day and night because we understand how stressful this time is for you and your family.
- Former Prosecutors on Your Side: We know how the other side handles these cases because we used to do it ourselves. This insider perspective gives us an edge in finding weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.
Don’t gamble with your reputation and freedom. Pick a Rockville criminal defense lawyer who knows how to handle these types of charges. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Overview of Drug Possession in Maryland
In Maryland, drug possession means having control over illegal drugs or certain prescription medications without a valid prescription. Maryland law recognizes two types of possession.
Actual Possession
This is the most straightforward form—actual possession means drugs are found directly on your person. That could be in your clothing, purse, backpack, or anywhere you directly control at the time of arrest.
Constructive Possession
You can be charged even if you don’t physically have the drugs on you, which many people don’t realize. The law looks at whether you had the ability and the intent to control the drugs. For example, if police find drugs in your car’s glove box, under a couch cushion in your apartment, or even in a locker 50 miles away, you could still be charged with possession and face the same penalties as if the drugs were in your pocket.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Possession in Rockville, Maryland?
Drug convictions in Maryland can seriously affect your life—even a first offense can create problems that linger for years.
General Penalties
Maryland penalties for drug crimes are strict and often include jail or prison time, depending on the circumstances. Convictions come with additional collateral consequences, making it much harder to find jobs, secure housing, get certain professional licenses, or qualify for student loans. Even seemingly minor drug charges can create long-term complications.
First-Time vs. Repeat Offenders
If it’s your first time being charged, you may have access to alternatives to jail, such as diversion programs focusing on drug education and community service. Completing this type of program may allow your charges to be dismissed or expunged from your record later.
In contrast, people with prior, drug-related convictions face far tougher penalties. Judges are much more likely to impose significant jail time.
Factors That Affect Penalties
Several things shape how severe drug penalties can get. Judges and prosecutors will look at your criminal record when determining the consequences. Penalties increase for offenses near schools or certain public spaces. The type of substance and amount in your possession also play a major role in the outcome.
If you or someone you love is facing a drug allegation in Maryland, reach out for help as soon as possible.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for Drug Possession?
Being arrested for drug possession doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted; there are a variety of legal defenses that your lawyer may use, depending on your situation:
- Unlawful Search and Seizure: If police searched you, your vehicle, or your home without a valid warrant or probable cause, the evidence could be thrown out, which would weaken or destroy the case against you.
- Lack of Knowledge or Intent: If you didn’t know about the drugs or had no control over them—like drugs in a car you were borrowing and didn’t know about—this is a valid defense.
- Valid Prescription: If you have a current, verifiable prescription for the substance in question, you’re generally not guilty of illegal drug possession.
This is just an overview of possible defenses. Your attorney will review the entire case and determine the best course of action.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Drug Possession Lawyers in Rockville, MD
Facing a drug possession charge in Rockville can be a stressful and confusing experience, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Alpert Schreyer is committed to giving every client personalized attention and the benefit of decades of courtroom experience. The right legal team can make all the difference.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Rockville drug possession attorney.