Protect Your Rights
Get the Defense You Deserve
Maryland Federal Drug Lawyer
Federal drug crimes are prosecuted differently from state offenses, with federal agencies such as the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigating and prosecuting charges ranging from simple drug possession to more severe offenses like drug trafficking. Facing an indictment or charge related to drug manufacturing, possession, distribution, trafficking, or other drug crimes puts your freedom and future at risk. These charges can result in prison time, asset forfeiture, and devastating effects on your financial and emotional well-being.
To protect your rights and your future, you need the expertise of a skilled Maryland federal drug lawyer who is familiar with the intricacies of federal law. There are severe consequences, both civil and criminal, associated with a drug conviction, including imprisonment, hefty fines, and long-lasting penalties.
Types of Federal Drug Charges
In 1970, the Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act categorized drugs into five schedules, which determine the penalties for their misuse. The law also gives the U.S. Attorney General authority to update drug classifications. Depending on the offense, a federal drug charge requires a strategic defense, and the penalties can be severe. A Maryland federal drug lawyer will know how to defend you against the following offenses:
- Drug Possession: This charge includes possession of marijuana as well as other illegal drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, and more.
- Drug Cultivation: This involves the illegal growing or reproduction of drugs, such as marijuana, methamphetamines, cocaine, heroin, or LSD.
- Drug Distribution: Refers to smaller-scale operations involving the manufacturing, transportation, or sale of illicit drugs.
- Drug Manufacturing: Large-scale operations that produce, distribute, or sell illegal drugs.
- Drug Trafficking: Covers the transportation, manufacturing, or sale of large amounts of illegal drugs.
Drug trafficking charges carry the most serious consequences. If you possess a certain quantity of drugs, prosecutors may charge you with trafficking, even if you intend to use the drugs for personal consumption. Charges can be escalated based on the quantity of drugs, the circumstances of your arrest, and whether anyone was harmed in the process.
Penalties for Federal Drug Crime Convictions
While most drug offenses are prosecuted at the state level in Maryland, drug trafficking and conspiracy cases are often transferred to federal jurisdiction. Federal convictions typically lead to harsher sentences in accordance with federal sentencing guidelines.
Factors influencing penalties include the quantity of drugs involved, your criminal history, the involvement of weapons or minors in the offense, and whether you were part of a larger trafficking network. Federal drug crimes often involve mandatory prison sentences, meaning the judge has little discretion to reduce the sentence based on mitigating circumstances.
For example, a first-time conviction for marijuana possession can lead to up to one year in prison and a fine of $1,000. Larger quantities, or subsequent offenses, will lead to more severe penalties. Trafficking even a small amount of marijuana could result in up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The penalties for cocaine or heroin possession and trafficking are much more severe, with the possibility of life sentences in some cases.
Defending Federal Drug Charges in Maryland
A skilled federal drug lawyer can employ various strategies to challenge the prosecution’s case. Some common defenses include:
- Challenging the accuracy of drug test results
- Questioning the legality of searches and seizures
- Examining police procedures for potential violations
- Determining if constitutional rights were infringed upon during the arrest or investigation
In some cases, you may face both state and federal charges for the same offense. However, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that being prosecuted by both courts does not violate double jeopardy laws.
Find an Aggressive Maryland Federal Drug Attorney
If you are facing federal drug charges, do not assume that a conviction is inevitable. The complexities of federal law require the attention of a dedicated, experienced lawyer. A Maryland federal drug attorney will carefully evaluate the facts of your case and work toward a favorable outcome, whether that’s a reduction in charges, a dismissal, or a not guilty verdict.
Contact a Maryland federal drug lawyer today to discuss your case. With a knowledgeable defense attorney on your side, you can protect your rights and fight for the best possible result in your case.
Free Case Evaluation
Don’t Risk Your Future or Your Freedom...
CALL US TODAY 410-699-0558