Maryland prohibits the unlawful possession of drugs and other controlled substances. A person charged with this criminal offense faces serious penalties, such as fines and jail time. With the help of an Upper Marlboro drug possession lawyer at Langford Law, you or a loved one could successfully navigate the criminal justice system and ensure your rights are protected. A seasoned drug attorney could protect you from unfair prosecution and work to get the charges dismissed.
Understanding Drug Possession and Related Drug Offenses
According to Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 5-601, possessing a controlled dangerous substance in Maryland is illegal. The law also prohibits obtaining or attempting to obtain controlled substances through acts of fraud and other forms of misrepresentation, such as the following:
- Using a false name or address
- Counterfeiting or altering a prescription
- Falsely assuming the title of a manufacturer, distributor, or authorized provider
However, two exceptions to drug possession laws may apply, which an Upper Marlboro lawyer could assert in the event of an arrest. For example, it is not considered a criminal violation if a person received the drugs directly from the prescription of an authorized provider, or if they are at least 21 years old and in possession of cannabis within the personal use amount. This includes up to one and a half ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or 750 milligrams of THC.
An arrest for drug possession may also result in additional charges depending on the circumstances. For example, having drug paraphernalia is a misdemeanor, which can result in extra fines for a first offense and possible jail time for repeat offenses. A person could also be charged with intent to distribute if they possessed a sufficient quantity that would reasonably suggest an intent to sell.
Penalties for Drug Possession
Drug possession is a misdemeanor offense, and a conviction could result in up to a year of imprisonment and a fine of up to $5,000. However, subsequent offenses can lead to harsher penalties, with a second or third conviction carrying a maximum prison sentence of 18 months, and a fourth or subsequent conviction potentially resulting in up to a two-year sentence.
According to Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 5-602, a charge for drug possession with intent to distribute, however, is a felony offense, meaning that the potential penalties for a conviction are significantly harsher. If the controlled substance is a Schedule I or Schedule II narcotic drug, a person could face a prison sentence of up to 20 years and a maximum fine of $15,000.
An Upper Marlboro attorney could help you understand the penalties you face and determine the most effective defense strategy for your drug possession case.
Speak With an Upper Marlboro Drug Possession Attorney
Eddie Langford is a graduate of Howard Law School and is dedicated to representing individuals facing criminal charges. He understands the detrimental impact of a drug possession charge and could work with you to achieve a favorable outcome.
A criminal conviction could not only result in imprisonment and fines but also have long-lasting effects on a person’s future. It is crucial to seek the assistance of strong legal representation to secure the best possible outcome for your case. They could help you avoid a conviction altogether or advocate for alternative sentencing. Get in touch with an Upper Marlboro drug possession lawyer at Langford Law today to find out how we may assist you.