Have You Been Charged with a Drug Crime in Maryland?

Maryland is known for its harsh drug crime laws and your case will likely be no different. Many start out with charges that, if you’re found guilty of, will come with harsh fines, sentences, and life-changing impact that could affect your social status, future employment opportunities, and even disqualify you for a loan. If you’ve been charged with a drug crime, it’s time for you to get a criminal defense attorney in Maryland so you can better understand what these different types of charges mean.

Possession

Possession is the most common type of drug charge because of how simple it is and because it’s not uncommon for it to happen to both adults and juveniles. You can be charged with possession when a law enforcement official catches you in the control of drugs which can include on your person, in your car, or in any of your personal property. It is also good to understand that many possession charges can escalate when commonly combined with other related charges.

Intent to Distribute, Manufacturing, or Growing

Even if you had no intent to distribute, being caught with certain amounts and types of drugs will likely mean you can expect to face an intent to distribute charge. The carried quantity will often be evaluated by the arresting officer whose discretion could escalate what would be a possession charge to intent to distribute if they deem it to be too much for just personal use. This elevates your case from a misdemeanor to a felony. In some situations, charges could also escalate to manufacturing or growing.

First-Time or Repeat Offender?

If you’re found guilty as a first-time offender, you may not have to face jail time and may even get the chance to have your record expunged after a specified period of time. First-time offenders might even have the opportunity to take drug education courses in lieu of other penalties. Still, being found guilty at all is not an easy situation to face without a criminal defense attorney in Maryland. Repeat offenders are even less lucky as the justice system will see them as having not learned from their previous actions. A repeat offender will face enhanced penalties including more severe incarceration as well as a life-long criminal history.

Should You Contact A Defense Lawyer?

If you’ve been charged with a drug crime in Maryland, you need to contact a criminal defense attorney. Albers & Associates is a top-rated and reviewed Maryland attorney who can help with your drug charge case, from possession to intent to distribute, from first-time offenders to repeat offenders, to any charge brought down on you in the State of Maryland. Contact Albers & Associates today to start your service with a Maryland criminal defense attorney.