Glen Burnie Drug Crime Defense Attorneys

Experienced Drug Crime Defense Attorneys for Clients in Glen Burnie, Maryland

A drug crime in Maryland can come with harsh sentencing, depending on whether or not the drugs were intended for personal use, how much of the substance was seized, and the type of drug. If you have been arrested for charges of drug possession or distribution, it is critical to seek out legal representation to protect yourself. A knowledgeable Glen Burnie criminal defense attorney can provide you with aggressive advocacy throughout your case.

At Zide Law Group, LLC, we know just how impactful a conviction of a drug crime can be. We will do everything we can to defend you in court, considering every strategy to mitigate the charges against you.

Drug Possession

If you are accused of possessing an illegal controlled substance in Maryland, you could face significant penalties. For a first conviction of this offense, you will be charged with a misdemeanor, carrying a sentence of up to a year in prison on a conviction. With subsequent convictions, the penalties increase, up to a maximum of two years.

Additionally, drug possession crimes carry the potential for high fines. The courts are permitted to impose thousands of dollars in fines, which can be imposed in addition to or in lieu of prison time.

While recreational cannabis is legal in Maryland, there are legal limits for possession. You can only have two cannabis plants inside your home, and if you are caught with more than 2.5 ounces of cannabis, you could face misdemeanor charges. At Zide Law Group, LLC, we can help you fight a drug possession charge and negotiate for reduced charges.

Drug Distribution

The penalties for drug distribution or possession with intent to distribute can be quite severe. In Maryland, drugs are divided into distinct "schedules" ranked by accepted medical use and potential for abuse. Schedule I and II substances carry high rates of addiction and little, if any accepted medical use, consisting of drugs like bath salts and morphine.

If you are accused of distributing or attempting to distribute a Schedule I or II substance, you could be charged with a felony and potentially sentenced to up to 20 years in prison. The maximum sentence increases to 25 years if you have a prior conviction on your record.

Note that you do not have to be 'caught in the act' of making a transaction to be charged with drug distribution. You can be charged with distribution if you have "a sufficient quantity [of the drug] reasonably to indicate (...) an intent to distribute," meaning that you can face distribution charges simply for possessing a large amount of drugs.

Defenses Against Drug Charges in Maryland

If you have been arrested for a drug crime in Maryland, you may be able to avoid a conviction by participating in a drug diversion program. These programs are typically available to first offenders or people convicted of non-violent drug offenses. Every county has its own eligibility requirements for diversion programs, with varying terms such as participating in a treatment program.

If diversion is not an option, our attorneys are more than ready to represent you in court. We will take a close look at the procedures that were used to arrest you, checking to see if your rights were violated at any point. If your home or vehicle was searched without a warrant or probable cause, the evidence against you could be deemed inadmissible.

Meet With a Glen Burnie, MD Drug Crime Defense Attorney

At Zide Law Group, LLC, our Glen Burnie drug crime defense lawyers are here to protect your rights in a court of law. To schedule a free consultation today, call our offices at 410-760-9433 or contact us online today.