Salisbury Drug Lawyer
Drug charges can lead to lengthy prison sentences, high fines, and the loss of your constitutional rights if you are convicted. A drug conviction’s impact on your life, and the life of those around you, can be incredibly serious. Whether the charge is for possession, cultivation, or even trafficking, you have rights that deserve to be defended by an experienced attorney. You are not alone in this fight.
With the help of an experienced Salisbury drug lawyer, you can defend your case against the allegations of the state. Our firm has the years of experience needed to fight for your rights.
Types Of Drug Offenses In Maryland
Drug offenses in the state can be either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the unique facts of the case. While a misdemeanor offense is less serious than that of a felony, it can still carry high fines and jail time. A felony charge carries longer potential sentences and has much more significant implications for a defendant’s life long-term. Felony sentences can make it difficult to gain and maintain employment. They may also result in the loss of certain constitutional rights, such as the right to vote and the right to bear arms.
Whether a drug offense is considered a misdemeanor or felony typically depends on certain factors, such as:
- They type and schedule of drugs at issue
- Whether the offense is for possession, manufacture, or trafficking
- The amount of drugs at issue in the case
- The location the drugs were found or sold
- Whether the defendant is a repeat drug offender under state law
An experienced attorney in drug cases can help a defendant determine the best path forward to defend against drug charges.
Possession Of Schedule I Or II Drugs
Under state law, drug trafficking offenses that involve a Schedule I or Schedule II substance are considered a felony. For a felony offense, the defendant faces long prison sentences. A first offense can lead to up to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. If an offender violates the statute again in the future, the penalties increase significantly.
When a defendant faces a felony drug charge, it is critical that they have an experienced drug lawyer in Salisbury in their corner.
Possession Of Marijuana
Marijuana possession, depending on the amount possessed, can range from a simple ticket to a misdemeanor for possession amounts. Additionally, repeat offenses can raise the potential penalties in the future.
Manufacture Or Sale Of Drugs
It is illegal to distribute, manufacture, or possess with intent to distribute a drug under state law. This includes any equipment that is designed to produce a drug, and actually used or intended for use for that purpose. Charges involving the manufacture or sale of drugs are typically felonies and are often more harshly pursued by prosecutors as compared to possession cases.
Navigating Drug Courts
Drug court offers an alternative to traditional criminal prosecution, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment. The process begins with an eligibility assessment, where nonviolent offenders with substance abuse issues may qualify.
Once accepted, participants undergo a structured program that includes regular court appearances, mandatory drug testing, substance abuse treatment, and counseling. The rigorous program requires compliance with all court orders and active participation in recovery efforts.
Successful completion of the drug court program can lead to reduced charges or even dismissal, providing a second chance for individuals committed to overcoming addiction. However, failure to comply with the program’s requirements can result in sanctions, including imprisonment.
An experienced drug lawyer can help navigate this process, ensuring support throughout the recovery journey.
Contact A Salisbury Drug Attorney Today For Help
Drug charges can have major implications on your freedom and your life. Possession and trafficking charges can label you forever as a felon, affecting you for the rest of your life. If you are facing drug charges, an experienced attorney could fight for you. Contact a Salisbury drug attorney today to schedule a consultation.