Your Maryland Drug Charges Should Be Taken Seriously
Since the 1980’s the war on drugs has prioritized the prosecution of drug users and dealers. While recent years have seen the state of Maryland dramatically shift its focus from incarceration to rehabilitation when it comes to drug users, the process remains very complicated.
What Are The Common Types Of Maryland Drug Offenses?
Some of the most common include:
- Drug possession charges (possession of CDS)
- Drug manufacturing, cultivation and production charges
- Drug trafficking and distribution
- Drug paraphernalia offenses
- Public consumption of controlled substances
Different charges carry different legal standards and potential penalties. Working with a drug possession lawyer can help determine the right defense strategy for your case.
What Happens With Drug Possession Charges (Possession Of CDS)?
Drug possession charges involve being caught with controlled dangerous substances (CDS). These can include:
- Illegal drugs
- Prescription drugs without authorization
- Possession of marijuana above legal limits
A drug possession lawyer will evaluate whether the evidence was lawfully obtained and if the prosecution can prove actual or constructive possession.
How Serious Are Drug Manufacturing, Cultivation And Production Charges?
Charges for producing or cultivating drugs are treated more harshly than simple possession. They involve:
- Accusations of growing marijuana plants
- Running meth labs
- Producing other controlled substances
A drug offense lawyer can challenge evidence of intent to distribute.
What Defines Drug Trafficking And Distribution In Maryland?
Drug trafficking is moving or selling drugs and can include transporting prescription drugs, marijuana or harder substances.
Trafficking cases carry heavier penalties because they imply larger scale operations. Anyone facing these charges should work with experienced criminal drug attorneys who understand how interstate laws interact with Maryland statutes.
What Should You Know About Drug Paraphernalia Laws And Public Consumption Of Controlled Substances?
Possession or sale of drug paraphernalia – items used to consume, package or produce drugs – can lead to additional charges. This may involve pipes, syringes or baggies. Even without drugs present, the presence of paraphernalia can be enough for prosecutors to push for a conviction.
Using illegal drugs in public places is another common charge. While seen as less severe than trafficking, public use can still result in fines, probation or jail time depending on the circumstances.
What Penalties Do Maryland Drug Convictions Carry?
The penalties for drug crimes vary, but they often include:
- Heavy fines and court costs
- Jail or prison time
- A permanent criminal record
A conviction can also affect jobs, housing and education opportunities.
How Can You Build A Strong Defense Against Maryland Drug Charges?
Strategic defenses may include:
- Questioning police searches
- Challenging lab results
- Proving lack of intent
An experienced drug crimes lawyer will look at every detail of the case to reduce or dismiss charges.
The Charm City Defense Approach
Criminal defense attorney Bradley Shepherd defends against those facing a wide range of drug offenses in both state and federal court.
He takes pride in offering skilled criminal defense representation in the courtroom, but also ensuring that his clients get the necessary drug treatment that they need. For many individuals, drug use and abuse are familiar problems that they’ve had for many years.
While beating the charge is important, setting a client up for success in the future so that they never need to hire an attorney again is always the main objective.
Oftentimes, the line between user and dealer can be difficult to draw. Far too frequently, the state’s attorneys prosecute an individual as a distributor without proper evidence to support that charge. Since the charge of distribution is a serious felony, hiring an attorney who is experienced in drug cases is critical. Distribution cases often hinge upon eyewitness testimony, informant testimony and expert witness testimony.
Contact Bradley Shepherd Today
It takes a seasoned attorney who knows the drug game to effectively cross-examine and discredit these types of witnesses. Let me help.
Call 443-998-9450 or send an email. Free phone consultations.
Don’t delay. The sooner you contact Bradley Shepherd, the sooner he can start investigating, protecting your rights and mitigating jail time or other penalties.