Baltimore, Maryland Drug Crimes Attorneys

Lawyers for Drug Possession and Distribution Charges in Baltimore

In Maryland, law enforcement officials and prosecutors take cases involving controlled substances seriously. The charges in these cases may range from misdemeanor possession offenses to serious felonies carrying decades of potential prison time. The consequences of a conviction can be severe, and a criminal record can follow a person for the rest of their life. The outcome of these cases will often come down to the quality of legal representation a person has as they defend against drug charges.

At Silverman Thompson, we represent people in Baltimore and throughout Maryland who are facing drug crime charges at both the state and federal levels. Our criminal defense team has a thorough understanding of how these cases are investigated, charged, and prosecuted. We can identify weaknesses in the government's case, take steps to protect our clients' constitutional rights, and work to secure the best possible outcomes in these cases.

The Value of a Legal Team That Understands Both Sides of Criminal Cases

One of the most important factors in selecting a criminal defense attorney to help address drug charges is whether that attorney understands how prosecutors approach these matters. Prosecutors will often rely on established strategies as they develop these cases. A defense team that understands those strategies will be able to challenge them effectively.

The attorneys at Silverman Thompson include former prosecutors who have handled cases in state and federal courts. They can provide an understanding of how prosecutors build drug cases, and they know where those cases may be vulnerable. Our team can address constitutional violations, witness credibility, and gaps in evidence that may provide opportunities for defense. Our experience informs every decision made throughout the defense process, and it helps ensure that our clients can resolve these cases successfully.

Drug Possession Charges in Maryland

Simple possession of a controlled dangerous substance for personal use is a drug charge in Maryland. The severity of a possession charge will depend on the type of substance involved, the quantity, and the circumstances of the arrest. Possession of controlled substances, including heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine, can lead to either misdemeanor or felony charges. A conviction can result in a lengthy sentence in jail or prison, fines, probation, mandatory drug treatment requirements, and a permanent criminal record.

For people facing drug possession charges, our legal team will explore every available option for defense. We can determine whether drug treatment diversion programs or probation before judgment may allow a client to avoid a conviction. We also can take steps to challenge the government's evidence and the legality of searches or other methods used to obtain evidence.

Possession With Intent to Distribute and Drug Distribution Charges

The line between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute is an important distinction. Large quantities of a controlled substance, packaging materials, scales, significant amounts of cash, multiple cell phones, and text messages or other communications suggesting that a person has been involved in drug sales can all lead law enforcement to increase charges from drug possession to drug distribution.

The penalties for drug distribution or possession with intent to distribute controlled dangerous substances may vary based on the substance involved and its quantity. Distribution of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and other Schedule I and II substances can result in sentences of up to 20 years for a first offense. Enhanced penalties may apply for additional offenses or in situations where offenses allegedly occurred near schools or other protected areas.

Prescription Fraud and Doctor Shopping

Not all drug charges involve street-level narcotics. Prescription fraud charges may apply in situations where people are accused of taking steps to obtain prescription medications without authorization. These cases may involve prescription opioids, stimulants, and other controlled medications that can result in addiction and drug abuse.

A person could be charged with prescription fraud if they are accused of forging or altering a prescription, using another person's prescription, presenting false information to a medical provider to obtain a prescription, or visiting multiple providers to obtain multiple prescriptions for the same medication, which is known as doctor shopping. Our attorneys can help clients defend against charges related to prescription drugs, taking steps to demonstrate that medications were obtained legally or working to ensure that a client can receive treatment for drug addiction while minimizing their potential penalties.

Drug Trafficking and Large-Scale Distribution

People may be charged with drug trafficking in cases involving large quantities of controlled substances. Charges of trafficking in large quantities of heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, or other controlled substances can result in severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences and maximum penalties that are much more severe than those that would apply in other drug distribution cases.

The stakes in drug trafficking cases are high, and legal representation is crucial to defend against penalties that could include years or decades in prison and massive fines. The legal team at Silverman Thompson can prepare for these cases thoroughly, address constitutional concerns, and fight to protect our clients' rights as we work to defend against drug trafficking convictions.

When Drug Cases May Be Prosecuted at the Federal Level

Drug crimes may be prosecuted in Maryland state court or in federal court. Cases are more likely to be prosecuted as federal crimes when they involve large quantities of controlled substances, claims that a person is involved in a drug trafficking organization, the transportation or distribution of drugs across state lines, or the use of firearms. Cases that are investigated by federal law enforcement agencies like the DEA, FBI, or Homeland Security Investigations may result in federal prosecution.

Federal drug charges carry mandatory minimum sentences that are often much longer than the penalties that apply for similar offenses at the state level. Federal sentencing guidelines will often result in lengthy prison terms, and defendants may be subject to supervised release conditions for years after completing a prison sentence.

Our legal team at Silverman Thompson handles drug cases in both Maryland state courts and the United States District Court for the District of Maryland. We understand the differences between state and federal drug charges, including the rules that are followed in federal courts and the approaches that federal prosecutors take during drug cases. With our knowledge and experience in these areas, we can provide effective representation to help clients resolve drug charges.

Contact Our Baltimore, MD Drug Crimes Lawyers

Whether you are facing a first-time drug possession charge or are involved in a federal investigation related to drug trafficking, you will need to make sure you have experienced legal representation. The lawyers at Silverman Thompson can provide the legal help you need to address these charges and resolve your case successfully. Contact our Baltimore drug crimes defense attorneys at 410-385-2225 to set up a free consultation.