Drug Crime Attorney in Owings Mills, MD

If you are facing drug charges in Maryland, it is crucial that you hire an experienced attorney to help you fight the charges. An attorney can review the details of your case, formulate an aggressive defense, and ensure you understand the legal process and your rights. Kent L. Greenberg is a highly skilled and experienced drug crime attorney in Owings Mills, MD, who represents clients in drug matters throughout the State of Maryland. Call us now to schedule an initial case evaluation if you or a loved one are facing drug crime charges.

What Are the Drug Crime Laws in Maryland?

Possession of any drug in Maryland can be a serious charge. Any dangerous controlled substance or illegal narcotic that’s made or ported can be considered a drug. They are often found during a search or traffic spot. The drug in question also plays a role in the charges; possessing a few grams of marijuana is not on the same level as possessing heroin. That said, possessing over 10 grams of marijuana can mean penalties of up to a $1,000 fine and a year of imprisonment. For all possession charges, the maximum penalty, according to state law, is a $25,000 fine and/or imprisonment for up to four years. In most cases, all possession charges are automatically classified as a misdemeanor.

You can also be charged for possessing drug paraphernalia (such as syringes or pipes). While the first offense is a minor misdemeanor, distributing drug paraphernalia to minors can carry a penalty of up to eight years in prison.

However, bringing large amounts of drugs into the state (even if they were not intended for distribution) can have penalties as high as a $50,000 fine and imprisonment for up to 25 years. In other words, if it seems you have large amounts of drugs to distribute as opposed to possessing them only for personal use, you could be charged with a felony, which has stricter and longer-lasting consequences. The sale, manufacturing, and distribution of drugs are treated more severely and carry stringent and more substantial penalties, especially for repeat offenders. Closely related to this category is drug trafficking, with the primary difference lying in quantity. A grave federal crime, drug trafficking is saved for cases with larger quantities of drugs that are generally valued at over $75,000 or more.

What Are the Different Types of Drug Crimes in Maryland? 

Understanding the different types of drug charges in Maryland can help you make sense of the charges against you and their potential consequences. The most common types of drug crime charges in Maryland are:

• Drug Possession – You may be charged with drug possession if you are found with drugs in your possession. You can be charged with simple possession, which is one of the most common drug charges in Maryland and involves the possession of a small quantity of a controlled substance that is intended for personal or medical use. You can also be charged with possession with intent to distribute or drug paraphernalia possession.
• Drug Distribution or Possession With Intent to Distribute – Possession with intent to distribute is a more serious charge than simple possession. In order to be charged with possession with intent to distribute, you must have a larger quantity of drugs in your possession than would be considered for personal use or have other items on you that indicate an intent to distribute, such as a large amount of cash or baggies, scales, or other paraphernalia. Drug distribution or drug dealing charges involve selling or distributing drugs on a smaller scale, usually less than 50 grams of a controlled substance.
• Drug Trafficking – Drug trafficking charges are very serious and are almost always felony charges. Drug trafficking is the sale or distribution of illegal drugs for profit.

When and Why Do You Need a Drug Crime Lawyer? 

Anyone who is facing any type of drug charge needs the assistance of an experienced criminal law attorney. Facing these charges alone can have lifelong consequences and affect your ability to secure housing, employment, and custody of your children. It can also impact your educational opportunities and your relationships with friends and family. Mr. Greenberg and our team can help you navigate the legal process, understand the charges against you and their potential consequences, and formulate an aggressive defense:

• Understand the Serious Legal Consequences of Your Charges – Greenberg will evaluate your case, review the evidence, and look for potential issues that could help him create a defense. He will ensure you understand the charges against you as well as their potential consequences so that you can assist in your defense and prepare for the legal process.
• Protect Your Rights and Formulate an Aggressive Defense – Greenberg and our team will develop an aggressive defense that helps protect your rights. The constitutionality of the search and seizure can be challenged, as well as the statements that are submitted to prove you were actually in constructive possession of the drug or substance. It’s also important for the prosecutor to have sufficient backing that proves what you had was indeed an illegal substance; this requires a lab report or chemical analysis. Until the state meets the burden of proof, there is ample opportunity for your drug defense attorney to research and challenge different angles of the case, creating a solid defense on your behalf for an ideal outcome.
• Navigate the Complexity of the Legal System – The Maryland legal system is complex, and trying to represent yourself in court or relying on the skills of a public defender can negatively affect the outcome of your case. Mr. Greenberg and our team have decades of experience handling drug charges in Maryland. We will ensure you understand the charges against you and are properly prepared for the legal process and potential consequences.

Schedule a Consultation With Our Drug Crime Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with drug possession in Maryland, seek a lawyer immediately to ensure a favorable outcome. Kent L. Greenberg and our team at the Law Office of Kent L. Greenberg have years of experience in dealing with drug convictions. With his help, you can fight for your freedom, your rights, and your future. Do not wait until the trial begins; the investigation period is crucial to helping swing the odds in your favor. Having a skilled drug defense lawyer could mean the difference between prison time and a clean record. Call us now or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our criminal drug lawyers in Owings Mills, MD.