Baltimore, Maryland Drug Possession Lawyers

Attorneys for Charges Involving Possession of Controlled Substances in Baltimore

If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime involving the possession of controlled substances, you are probably concerned about the legal consequences. Possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS) are among the most frequently charged, and prosecuted, cases in the criminal justice system. Charges involving drug crimes can lead to fines, incarceration, probation, and a permanent criminal record.

These cases must be differentiated from more serious felony narcotics cases that are typically known as distribution or possession with the intent to distribute. Offenses involving so-called "simple possession," or the possession of drugs for personal consumption, are classified as misdemeanors in Maryland. This might not be true in other states. Many other states classify the possession of even relatively small amounts of CDS as felonies, even without proof of intent to distribute the substances.

Penalties for Drug Possession

Drug possession charges may be misdemeanors under Maryland law, but convictions for these offenses can have serious consequences that can follow a person throughout their life.

Prison sentences for simple possession can be up to two years. In Maryland, possession of a CDS other than marijuana carries a maximum penalty of one year of incarceration and up to a $5,000 fine for a first offense. Subsequent offenses can increase the jail time to 18 months or two years. Probation terms can be long and stringent. Offenders are often subjected to random testing, participation in time-consuming and expensive drug treatments, and other conditions that can be difficult to follow perfectly. Any slip-up, such as a positive drug test, can result in a violation of probation, which may then result in jail time and a permanent criminal record.

Additionally, employment and housing can be impacted by these charges. Many employers are reluctant to hire people with drug convictions, as they may view these charges as an indication that someone is unpredictable and untrustworthy. Drug offenders can face lifetime bans from public housing authorities, they may be screened out from housing applications, and they may even be evicted for using drugs.

Marijuana Laws in Maryland

With new laws that went into effect in Maryland in 2023, the possession of up to 1.5 ounces of marijuana for personal use carries no criminal penalty. However, marijuana possession of 1.5 to 2.5 ounces can result in a civil offense with a fine not exceeding $250. Public consumption of marijuana can result in civil fines up to $500.

Marijuana possession in Maryland may result in criminal charges in some cases. The possession of between 2.5 ounces and 50 pounds of marijuana is a misdemeanor that can result in up to one year of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000. However, possession of even small amounts of marijuana can still be prosecuted as a felony if there is evidence that the person possessed it with the intent to distribute it. The possession of more than 50 pounds of marijuana carries a minimum mandatory sentence of five years and a fine of up to $100,000.

Legal Help With Drug Possession Cases

At Silverman Thompson, our team includes multiple attorneys who formerly served as prosecutors at the state and federal levels. Over a history spanning more than 30 years, we have handled thousands of drug possession cases and other types of drug crimes from the perspective of both the prosecution and the defense.

Unlike other law firms that provide representation in criminal cases involving controlled substances, we do not use generic, boilerplate motions to try to suppress evidence. Our team members take the time to research cases, and we develop detailed evicence suppression motions that are based on the specific facts involved in a case. Even when defending against simple possession charges, we put forth the effort needed to protect our clients' rights.

Because our attorneys have formerly served as prosecutors, we know the strategies that may be used by federal prosecutors and assistant state's attorneys, as well as the procedures that are followed in these cases. With our understanding of the steps that the prosecution will take to try to secure a conviction, we can counter their strategies and build a successful defense. The knowledge we provide for our clients can make the difference in criminal cases. We can provide the aggressive representation needed to achieve success for our clients.

Contact Our Baltimore, MD Drug Possession Attorneys

At Silverman Thompson, we always strive to meet high standards when defending clients in criminal cases. To get effective legal help with drug possession charges or other related offenses, contact our Baltimore drug possession defense lawyers at 410-385-2225 to arrange a free consultation.