Like most other states, Maryland treats drug offenses seriously and having them in your possession can leave you facing a harsh penalty. This can be a very worrying position to be in, especially if you’ve never had any interaction with the police or the legal system before.
For first-time offenders, the penalties you face can vary depending on a range of variables such as the type of drugs you have with you and how much of it there is.
Maryland uses the federal rules of classification
Drugs are categorized in schedules from I to V. Schedule I are those which are considered to have the highest potential for abuse without any medically accepted use. Examples of these types of drugs are heroin and LSD. From there, Schedules II to V are categorized in descending order of their potential for abuse.
Penalties you face depend on the class of drug and amount
Being found in possession of a drug such as cocaine or heroin is treated seriously by the courts. In Maryland, however, being in possession of any controlled substance is subject to the same possible penalties below.
First-time offenses are generally treated as a misdemeanor which can result in a maximum prison sentence of four years and a fine of up to $25,000. This can become a felony offense if you’re arrested with a large amount of drugs on you or you are found bringing these drugs into the state.
If you’ve been arrested with drugs in your possession, the best thing you can do is to urgently seek some legal representation to help you with your case. They can help you prepare your defense and challenge the evidence against you.