Annapolis Drug Possession Lawyers

Skilled Drug Possession Charges Lawyers Advocating for Clients Annapolis, MD

Maryland's drug laws are complex, covering different situations related to possession, distribution, or other related offenses. Depending on the type of controlled substance and the amount involved in your case, you could face charges of drug possession or possession with intent to distribute. Anyone can be charged with a drug crime, from college students and parents to business managers and other professionals, and a conviction will have severe consequences. Whether you are being investigated or have been charged with a drug crime, an experienced criminal defense lawyer can assertively advocate for your rights and help you fight the charges.

When you choose Henley & Henley, Attorneys at Law, you benefit from our 50+ years of collective experience representing clients charged with drug crimes and other offenses. We know the best ways to approach your defense, and we can develop optimal strategies to help you beat these charges. Our goal is to achieve the most favorable resolution possible, and we have the skills needed to help you succeed.

Drug Possession Laws in Maryland

Unless you have a valid prescription in your name, it is illegal to possess, attempt to obtain, or acquire a controlled substance in Maryland. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration has exhaustive lists of controlled substances, which are classified in different schedules according to their potential medical use and likelihood of drug addiction or abuse. Other substances may be illegal even if they are not on the DEA's list.

Schedule I drugs have the most potential for abuse, and they include heroin, cannabis, and peyote. Schedule V drugs carry lower risks and are often prescribed for medical use, such as cough syrups including codeine. Allegations of drug possession can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, and penalties for a conviction include fines and jail or prison time.

Possession With Intent to Distribute

If you are accused of possessing large quantities of controlled substances, this could be seen as an indication that the drugs are not just for your personal use. Possession of drug paraphernalia, such as scales and baggies, as well as large amounts of cash, can substantiate the assumption that you intended to sell or otherwise distribute drugs illegally. In these situations, you will face more serious charges related to drug distribution.

Similarly, you may be accused of possession of controlled substances with intent to manufacture narcotics. For example, having sufficient quantities of allergy or cold medications that include pseudoephedrine or ephedrine could imply that you intend to make methamphetamines. Like drug distribution, drug manufacturing charges are more serious than those involving simple possession.

Maryland Cannabis Laws

Although adults 21 and over can now use cannabis legally for recreational purposes in Maryland, you could still face drug charges if:

• You are under 21
• There are more than two cannabis plants in your home, regardless of how many adult residents there are
• You are using cannabis in restricted areas, including when driving a vehicle

Possession of cannabis, concentrated cannabis, and cannabis products in amounts above the legal limits that apply under Maryland law can result in misdemeanor charges.

Defense Strategies for Drug Possession Charges in Maryland

When you work with Henley & Henley, Attorneys at Law, we immediately begin investigating your situation. When building a strong defense strategy, we will examine every detail, looking for multiple ways to reduce your charges or have your case dismissed altogether. Your customized defense strategy may include:

• Challenging the legality of a search and seizure to exclude evidence
• Exposing gaps in the chain of custody of evidence
• Asserting that any drugs found were not yours and you were not aware of their presence
• Providing alternate reasons for having plastic bags, scales, or an abundance of cold medications
• Maintaining that someone else coerced you to take possession of drugs
• Arguing that evidence does not clearly tie you to the drugs in question
• Disputing laboratory analysis results
• Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce your charges or dismiss your case
• Arguing that you should be given probation before judgment

Regardless of your circumstances, we will work to minimize the consequences of your drug possession or possession with intent to distribute charges.

Call Our Annapolis Drug Possession Defense Lawyers

Nothing takes the place of extensive first-hand experience when it comes to preparing and presenting an effective defense strategy for drug possession charges. At Henley & Henley, Attorneys at Law, our attorneys have the experience and skills you need to mount a successful defense. We are known for our exceptional dedication and determination to win cases for our clients. Call us at 410-280-0530 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.