What to Know About Drug Charges in Maryland

 Posted on February 20, 2025 in English

Drug charges can carry serious penalties in Maryland. Yet the penalties for a drug crime vary depending on the type of controlled substance or drug implicated and on the type of criminal activity. If you have been charged with a drug crime, you may not understand the charges or potential penalties. Turning to an experienced Rockville, MD drug crimes criminal defense attorney is crucial to understanding the charges against you and mounting a strong defense. 

How Do Maryland Drug Charges Work?

In Maryland, controlled dangerous substances (CDS) are classified into five categories or schedules based on the drug’s danger and its potential for addiction and abuse. Penalties for drug offenses involving CDS will vary based on the type of drug and the amount involved. Additionally, using a minor to manufacture or distribute drugs, or distributing drugs near a school are separate offenses that carry their own penalties.

It is important to note that marijuana has been legalized in Maryland for both medical and recreational use, as long as the person is over 21 years old and the amount of the drug is for personal use. 

What Are Common Maryland Drug Charges and Penalties?

Drug Possession

Possessing CDS is illegal unless it is obtained from an authorized provider or if the possession is of less than 10 grams of marijuana intended for personal use by someone 21 years of age or older. The penalties for drug possession vary based on whether it is a first or subsequent offense, but the minimum penalty for the first offense, a misdemeanor drug possession charge, is up to one year in jail time and a fine of up to $5000. 

Drug Distribution

Distributing or possessing a CDS other than marijuana with intent to distribute is a crime. The penalties depend on the CDS schedule type and the number of convictions. At a minimum, the first conviction for offenses involving drugs such as cocaine or MDMA carries up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. If the drug being distributed is heroin or fentanyl, the crime carries an additional 10 years in prison. 

Drug Trafficking

Bringing a certain amount of CDS into the state of Maryland is a felony punishable with up to 25 years in prison and a $50,000 fine. The amounts are outlined in the law. For example, the amount necessary for a trafficking conviction for marijuana is 45 or more kilograms. A charge for drug trafficking of cocaine, however, only requires allegations that the perpetrator trafficked 28 or more grams of cocaine. 

Contact a Rockville, MD Criminal Defense Attorney 

At Salvado Law Offices we vigorously represent clients facing charges of illegal drug use, possession, and trafficking. Our experienced Ballenger Creek, MD criminal defense attorneys understand the law and are ready to defend our clients from accusations. Call our offices at 301-933-1814. Every consultation is complimentary for those with pending charges.