Maryland state law treats alleged drug offenses quite seriously. If you are currently facing drug charges, it is important that you understand what the future might hold for you. For example, legal consequences often include things like fines and jail time. Familiarizing yourself with your charges and possible ramifications is often a good place to start when working on a criminal defense.
Different types of drug charges
Drug charges is more of a blanket term that refers to a number of offenses involving controlled dangerous substances. Like many other offenses, these charges can be either misdemeanors or felonies. Perhaps one of the more well-known types of drug charge is drug possession. Other examples of drug charges include:
- Possession with the intent to sell
- Manufacturing
- Trafficking
- Distribution
What are controlled dangerous substances?
Controlled dangerous substances are generally illegal to have, use or distribute in the state of Maryland. In certain situations, prescription medications might also be considered controlled dangerous substances. You might be more familiar with terms like illegal substances or drugs. Here are a few examples of controlled dangerous substances with which you might be familiar:
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine
- Ecstasy
- Mushrooms
- OxyContin
- Vicodin
It is understandable that you are feeling worried about your future. Depending on what drug charges you might be facing, you could be looking at more than just time behind bars. Convictions for drug offenses often limit employment and educational opportunities, too. Since there is so much on the line, you may not want to delay in learning more about your situation.