Charles County Drug Crimes Attorney

At the Law Office of Hammad S. Matin, P.A., we provide a strong, effective defense of criminal charges brought in Charles County, Maryland, including drug crimes such as possession and distribution.

The state prohibits the manufacture, distribution, possession or possession with intent to distribute certain drugs classified as controlled dangerous substances. These substances include common street drugs such as marijuana, crack and powder cocaine, and heroin, as well as painkillers and other prescription drugs, such as Oxycontin, Percocet, and Oxycodone, when they are obtained or administered without a proper prescription.

Penalties and Mandatory Sentences

Penalties for drug offenses can differ widely depending upon the type of drug and quantity involved and the defendant's criminal history. Punishments can range from a $100 fine for possession of under an ounce of marijuana, to 20 years in prison and fines of $25,000 for possession or distribution of narcotics.

The law also imposes mandatory minimum sentences on repeat offenders. Mandatory minimum sentences can range from two years to ten years, depending upon the crimes and drugs involved. Mandatory minimum sentences cannot be suspended, and you are not eligible for parole during the mandatory period. Whether you are being charged with a first offense or a repeat offense, it is very important to have an attorney who understands mandatory sentences and the implications of being charged or convicted of various crimes.

A Word About Drug Courts

The State of Maryland has dozens of drug courts, including adult and juvenile drug courts, family/dependency drug courts, and DUI/drug courts. If you qualify for drug court, you may be ordered into treatment for substance abuse instead of jail. Even in criminal court, there are alternatives to prison for drug offenders, including treatment and rehabilitation programs, probation and electronic monitoring. If you have been arrested for a drug offense because of a drug addiction or other drug problem, the criminal justice system may be used to get the help you need to turn your life around.

Alternative sentencing programs may be your best option, but they may involve pleading guilty and facing penalties like jail if you cannot complete the program. You should discuss your situation with your attorney and explore all of your options for deciding on how to handle your case. There are often many defenses available to drug charges, including challenging the legality of stops, searches and seizures that resulted in the arrest. Contact the Law Office of Hammad S. Matin, P.A. for a free consultation regarding your drug arrest or drug charges.