Rockville Drug Crimes Lawyer

Skilled Defense for Drug Crime Charges in Rockville, MD

Drug crimes rank among the most serious criminal offenses in Maryland. The state has strict laws regarding controlled substances, and those who are charged with drug-related offenses are likely to face severe consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Defending against these charges will require an understanding of the specific drug laws that may apply in certain situations, familiarity with the legal system, and knowledge of effective defense strategies.

An attorney is an invaluable asset when dealing with drug crime charges. At Salvado Law Offices, our lawyers have the experience, knowledge, and skills needed to protect the rights of defendants throughout the legal process. We provide our clients with compassionate representation focused on achieving the best possible outcomes in their cases. We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding an arrest, review the evidence involved in a case, challenge any procedural errors, and work tirelessly to build a strong defense. Defendants who receive representation from our attorneys can significantly increase the chances of resolving their cases successfully, whether through reduced sentences, plea bargains, or a dismissal of charges.

Types of Controlled Substances Involved in Drug Crimes

Maryland law generally classifies controlled substances the same as federal law. Different types of drugs are included in groups known as schedules based on their potential for abuse and whether they have any accepted medical uses. Drugs in different schedules include:

• Schedule I: Drugs with a high likelihood of abuse and no accepted medical uses, such as heroin, LSD, and ecstasy.
• Schedule II: Drugs that are likely to be abused but may have some accepted medical uses, like cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription opioids.
• Schedule III: Substances with a moderate to low likelihood of dependence, including anabolic steroids and certain stimulants.
• Schedule IV: Drugs that are less likely to result in abuse and dependence, such as Xanax and Valium.
• Schedule V: Substances with a lower potential for abuse than Schedule IV drugs, such as cough preparations containing codeine.

The severity of drug crimes will often depend on how the substances involved in a case are classified. Schedule I and II drugs will often result in the most serious penalties, but drugs in other schedules may also lead to serious criminal charges.

Different Types of Drug Charges

In Maryland, drug crimes may include:

• Drug possession: Carrying drugs or keeping them on your property without a valid prescription or legal justification may be considered possession of a controlled substance. Penalties for possession can vary depending on the type and amount of the drug, and your criminal history may also be considered when determining the penalties that may apply upon conviction.
• Possession with intent to distribute: In some cases, you may be accused of possessing drugs with the intent to sell or distribute them to others. Evidence such as large quantities of drugs, packaging materials, and large amounts of cash can lead to this charge.
• Drug distribution: The actual sale, delivery, or transfer of controlled substances will typically lead to more serious charges than simple possession. Convictions for drug delivery or distribution can result in lengthy prison sentences, especially if large quantities or certain types of drugs are involved.
• Drug trafficking: Some of the most severe drug charges involve the transportation, importation, or exportation of large quantities of controlled substances. Bringing drugs into Maryland or transporting drugs across state lines may result in federal charges, which often carry more serious penalties than state-level drug charges.

Potential Defense Strategies Against Drug Crime Accusations

Defending against drug charges requires a thorough understanding of the law and the ability to scrutinize the evidence presented by the prosecution. At Salvado Law Offices, our attorneys understand the methods that may be used to defend against convictions and the best ways to resolve cases by challenging evidence, negotiating plea agreements, or determining whether alternative sentencing options may be available. Some potential defense strategies in drug crime cases include:

• Challenging the legality of searches: The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures of a person or their property. If law enforcement conducted a search without receiving a warrant or without probable cause, any evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
• Questioning the validity of evidence: Our attorneys may review handling, storage, and testing procedures for evidence uncovered by law enforcement. Discrepancies or errors in the chain of custody can lead to certain types of evidence being excluded.
• Proving lack of possession or knowledge: For a possession charge, the prosecution must prove that the defendant knowingly possessed the controlled substance. It may be possible to demonstrate that the defendant was unaware of the presence of drugs. For example, a driver may have been unaware of drugs possessed by a passenger in their vehicle, or a person may not have known that someone else was storing drugs on their property.
• Entrapment: In some situations, law enforcement officials may convince someone to commit a crime that they would not have otherwise committed. Our attorneys may be able to show that a defendant was coerced or enticed into committing a drug offense.

Contact Our Rockville, Maryland Drug Crime Defense Lawyers

In cases involving accusations of drug possession, drug distribution, drug trafficking, or other related offenses, the dedicated drug crime attorneys at Salvado Law Offices will work diligently to protect your rights and fight for your best interests. We understand the nuances of Maryland's drug laws, and we can develop effective defense strategies to help prevent serious penalties that could affect your life for many years. To discuss your case in a free consultation and explore your legal options, contact us at 301-933-1814. In addition to representing clients facing drug charges in Maryland, we also provide legal help with drug crime cases in Virginia from our office in Falls Church.