According to Federal government statistics, more people are arrested and charged with drug crimes than any other felony crime . The United States has been notoriously stringent in its drug regulation. Despite some recent trends in certain states to alleviate the severity of sentences involved with some controlled substances, the majority of states retain a rigorous drug law policy. It is very common that the penalties enforced far outweigh the gravity of the crime committed when it comes to controlled substances.
When you are charged with drug use, possession, manufacturing, or intent to sell, you could face thousands of dollars in fines, years or even decades in federal prison, and the confiscation of any assets that are considered to have been purchased with funds from the illegal drug trade. With so much at risk, it is imperative that you acquire the representation of a skilled and knowledgeable Frederick criminal defense attorney.
There are a wide range of charges and penalties for drug crimes. A variety of factors will come into play when determining the outcome following a drug charge. Drug laws in Maryland are very complex and case specific. The type and amount of substance or paraphernalia allegedly possessed, the facts surrounding the allegations, charge(s) or arrest, as well as whether a person has prior convictions or contacts with the criminal system, all of these can influence the outcome of your case.
Many factors can influence whether you are prosecuted for a misdemeanor or a felony drug crime and can significantly change the maximum penalties you are facing. In smaller cases in some Maryland courts, such as Frederick County, you might be eligible to participate in a diversion program to keep your case out of court and off your record entirely. Alternatively, an attorney might be also be able negotiate an agreement with the State to keep a drug conviction off your permanent criminal record. Without the appropriate legal counsel and review of your specific case, any drug offense can have a negative impact on your life. With the penalties associated with convictions in drug crime cases, it is advised that you have creative, insightful and aggressive legal counsel working for you as early as possible after your arrest.
At Law Offices of John R. Discavage, PA, we are exceptionally familiar Maryland drug laws, and our lead attorney formerly served as a prosecutor in the Office of the State's Attorney, allowing him deep insight into the criminal justice system and how best to navigate it for the benefit of clients. We approach each case with the dedication and legal acumen you need to fight back.
The personal consequences of drug crime convictions can severely affect the rest of your life. We will stand at your side throughout the entire legal process and fight to have your charges dismissed or your penalties reduced, or seek an acquittal at trial, or any other possible advantage. Our clients are people, not just cases, and we will be personally attentive to all of the questions and needs of the individuals we represent from beginning to end. Drug charges can be difficult, but we will do everything within our power to help you achieve the optimal outcome.
Contact a Frederick drug crime attorney if you stand accused of a drug crime and you would like to obtain the representation you need.