Drug Crimes

Annapolis Drug Crimes Lawyer

Drug crime charges are common in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, as they are around the country. People from all walks of life can end up being charged with drug possession. These cases can involve street drugs as well as unauthorized prescription medicines, such as opioid painkillers, barbiturates for anxiety, and stimulants, such as Adderall.

Unfortunately, a drug charge can derail your job or career and your future employability and result in a permanent criminal record. Fighting for your future is essential and can be done competently with the help of a proven criminal defense lawyer. 

At Hartman Attorneys at Law, we provide legal representation to those accused of drug crimes ranging from simple possession for one’s own personal use to more severe charges that can involve distribution or sales. Attorney Christian Hartman is a former prosecutor who puts the knowledge and skills of his career experience to work for you with an aggressive approach. 

Schedule a free initial consultation with our Annapolis drug crimes attorney. Get started by contacting us online or at (410) 469-6416

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Common Drug Crimes in Maryland

Drug crimes are based on the type and quantity of the drugs involved, which are divided into controlled substance “schedules.” Maryland Schedule I substances, including drugs like heroin, LSD, and ecstasy, are deemed to have a high potential for abuse and no recognized medical use, leading to the most severe penalties. 

Schedule II substances, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and certain opioids, are also recognized for their high potential for abuse. Penalties for crimes involving Schedule II substances are slightly less severe than those for Schedule I but remain substantial. 

Schedule III through V have lower potentials for abuse and result in increasingly lesser penalties. Drugs in these categories can range from ketamine to Xanax and codeine. 

Crimes involving these substances can include:

  • Possession: Unlawful possession of drugs classified under Maryland’s controlled substances schedules. Penalties vary with the drug type and amount.
  • Possession with intent to distribute: Holding large amounts of drugs suggests distribution purposes, attracting harsher penalties.
  • Drug manufacturing: Involves producing illegal substances, such as in methamphetamine labs. Penalties are severe, reflecting the risks associated with manufacturing.
  • Drug trafficking: The transportation or distribution of large drug quantities is considered a major felony with substantial prison time.
  • Prescription drug fraud: Includes acquiring prescription drugs through deceitful means, such as forgery or fraud.
  • Drug paraphernalia: Possession of items intended for use in growing, manufacturing, distributing, or using drugs. Maryland law penalizes possession of such items, with penalties dependent on the type of paraphernalia and its intended use.
  • Conspiracy to commit drug crimes: Involves planning or agreeing with others to engage in any drug-related crime.
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What Clients are Saying

Reviews & Testimonials
    "10/10 across the board."
    Christian was AMAZING! He showed no signs of doubt that he could give me the outcome I wanted in my case.
    - Kenedi
    "Christian Hartman is amazing at what he does."
    He is extremely professional and handles his business well on the stand. The fee paid for his service was well worth having this man defend my case.
    - Katina
    "Christian took care of my case and got me the best possible outcome."
    He communicated with me the entire time and made sure I understood what was happening throughout the case.
    - Former Client
    "I'd recommend him to anyone!"
    He's not like other lawyers who just do their routine, he actually talks a lot with you and he fights for you. He is very knowledgeable, he is an assistant state's attorney who switched sides. So he knows all the prosecutors and judges.
    - Mark
    "A seasoned professional with passion!"
    Mr. Hartman not only served as an attorney but an ally throughout the whole legal process. He made me with comfortable and familiar with the whole process and was able to produce a favorable outcome!
    - Cameron
    "His demeanor, professionalism and knowledge of the law was outstanding."
    He was excellent in every aspect of my DUI case. Since it was my first one I didn’t know what to expect dealing with the judicial system. He was able to explain the entire process to me before and during the court hearing.
    - Former Client

Drug Crime Penalties

Penalties for drug crimes reflect the seriousness of the offense and the type of controlled substance involved. For example, possession of a Schedule I substance like heroin could result in up to four years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000 for a first offense. 

In contrast, possession of a smaller amount of a Schedule V substance may be charged as a misdemeanor and only lead to a maximum of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Trafficking is generally the most severe crime, with the potential of decades of prison time.

Diversion Programs

Maryland offers diversion programs as alternatives to traditional sentencing for drug offenses, recognizing that rehabilitation may be more beneficial than punishment in some instances. Drug treatment courts combine legal proceedings with rehabilitation services. This involves continuous supervision, drug testing, treatment services, and penalties for those not complying with the program’s requirements.

Eligibility typically hinges on the nature of the offense, with a focus on non-violent offenders who are committed to overcoming substance abuse. Completing a diversion program can lead to reduced charges or even dismissal of charges, offering individuals a second chance and the opportunity to make positive changes in their lives.

Hartman Attorneys at Law Working for Your Best Possible Outcome

Our firm is adept at navigating the complex landscape of Maryland’s drug laws. We offer robust defense strategies tailored to individual cases, aiming to reduce or dismiss charges. We facilitate entry into diversion programs for eligible clients, providing a path toward rehabilitation and reduced penalties.

Discuss your case with our drug crimes lawyer in Annapolis by contacting us at (410) 469-6416.

Understanding Maryland’s Drug Possession Laws 

Under state law, it is illegal to possess any amount of a controlled substance (other than marijuana and prescription medications, in certain circumstances). This is known as drug possession, and it carries harsh penalties with a conviction. The exact penalties you face when charged with possession of a controlled substance depend on both the type of substance allegedly in your possession, as well as the amount. Your criminal record, if you have one, can also play a role in the possible penalties you face. 

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