Baltimore Drug Crimes Lawyer
Experienced Advocacy with Former Baltimore County Prosecutors
Drug crimes are among the most common heard in courts in Baltimore as well as courts across the nation. These crimes can range from the possession of a small amount of an illegal narcotic to be used for personal use to drug trafficking massive quantities across state lines. Drug charges can range from a marijuana violation on par with a traffic ticket to felonies punishable by up to 25 years in prison and fines of up to $50,000. Penalties may be doubled for repeat offenders.
If you or someone you know has been charged with a drug crime of any magnitude, you should not hesitate to bring in a criminal defense lawyer skilled in handling such crimes in the local courts. At T. Wray McCurdy, P.A., our team has built a long-standing reputation for excellence in legal ability, trial practice, and for countless referrals from satisfied clients. Our lead attorney is a former Baltimore County prosecutor with inside knowledge of how the prosecution works. We are here to apply our considerable experience, skills, and tenacity to helping you reach the best possible case outcome.
Charged with a drug crime? Get top-rated legal assistance and a free, initial consultation by contacting us at (410) 834-8466.
Drug Crimes in Maryland
In Maryland, illegal drugs are categorized by their degree of addictiveness and risk for abuse according to Schedules. Schedule I drugs are the most dangerous and have no medical value. Schedule I includes such drugs as heroin, methamphetamine, LSD, and Ecstasy. Drug crimes can also include medical drugs such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, Valium, Adderall, Fentanyl, and more. If you are found to be in possession of such drugs without a valid prescription, you can be charged and prosecuted.
In any drug case, your charges will be based on:
- Which Schedule class of drugs were found in your possession
- The amount found
- The nature of the crimes, such as simple possession vs. trafficking or manufacture
- Whether you have prior drug convictions
- Any aggravating factors, such as dealing drugs to minors or within a certain distance of a school, playground, or area where minors congregate
Drug crimes can include simple possession, possession with intent to distribute, distribution, sales, manufacture, cultivation, trafficking, possession of drug paraphernalia, and conspiracy. You can be charged with possession as well as with administering a drug to another person. Possession means that the drug was under your control, whether carried on your person or stored in your car, at home, or in your office.
Crimes associated with prescription drugs are based on obtaining the drugs through fraud, misrepresentation, or other forms of deceit, counterfeiting a prescription, using a fake name or address, or through other illegal means.
Simple possession of an illegal drug is generally charged as a misdemeanor carrying penalties of up to four years in prison and/or fines of up to $25,000. However, the actual penalties will depend on the specifics of your case. For example, specific amounts of cocaine, crack, heroin, and other drugs are punishable by up to five years in prison and fines of up to $100,000.
Marijuana Laws in Maryland
In 2014, the state passed a law making the possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana a civil offense punishable by a fine only of up to $100. Possession of up to 50 pounds of marijuana is charged as a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and fines of up to $1,000. Possession of more than 50 pounds is charged as a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and fines of up to $100,000. Cultivation and trafficking carry harsher penalties.
Hire Seasoned Baltimore Drug Crime Defense Lawyers Today
If you are a first offender in any drug possession case, you may eligible for a drug diversion program in lieu of criminal penalties. Ensuring you have the best chance for prevailing in court will depend on your legal representation. In those cases, as well as all other drug crime offenses, you can trust the experience, skills, and resources of T. Wray McCurdy, P.A.. We have handled thousands of criminal matters in the local courts building a strong track record of successful results.
Contact us at (410) 834-8466 to get started today.