Strong Defense Against Drug Crime Charges
The consequences of a drug conviction can vary greatly. Possession of a small amount of marijuana is a misdemeanor that can usually be resolved without a conviction. Possession of a large quantity of meth or crack cocaine can lead to federal drug charges and a lengthy prison sentence. As your lawyer, I will tailor my defense to the circumstances of your case to obtain a positive outcome.
I am Charles L. Waechter, a drug crime attorney serving Baltimore with more than 40 years of experience defending people charged with drug offenses in Maryland. I offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case by telephone or at any of my office locations in Baltimore, Annapolis, Ocean City or Bel Air.
Looking for a Favorable Resolution
If you are a first-time offender, my goal as your lawyer is to resolve your case in a way that will not have an adverse effect on your future. An offer of probation is not a good deal if you will end up with a criminal conviction that will haunt you for the rest of your life.
Maryland offers probation before judgment for many first-time drug offenders. If you complete the probation successfully, you will not be judged guilty and will not end up with a criminal record.
An Aggressive Defense When You Need It
If you face serious felony charges, I will provide you with an aggressive and hard-hitting defense on all types of drug charges, including:
- Drug distribution, sales and trafficking
- Possession of illegal narcotics
- Drug manufacturing and grow house operations
- Possession with intent to sell
- Possession of marijuana
- Prescription medication fraud
I will investigate the circumstances of the drug search and seizure and determine if any evidence should be suppressed. For example, if the police did not have probable cause to stop or search you, I will expose that misconduct in an attempt to have the drug charges dismissed or reduced.
I rarely handle drug cases where I don’t have my client enrolled in a drug treatment program before we appear in court. If you are found guilty and are not in treatment, the judge will not look at you favorably during sentencing. For that reason, I usually refer my clients to treatment programs early in the court process.
How Are Drugs Scheduled In Maryland?
In Maryland, drugs are categorized into five schedules based on their potential for abuse, accepted medical use, and the likelihood of causing dependency.
- Schedule I drugs: They include substances with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, such as heroin, LSD and ecstasy. Possession or distribution of Schedule I drugs results in the harshest penalties.
- Schedule II drugs: These have a high potential for abuse but may have limited medical use under strict supervision. Examples include cocaine, methamphetamine and prescription opioids like oxycodone.
- Schedule III drugs: They are considered to have a lower potential for abuse compared to Schedules I and II, and include substances like anabolic steroids and certain prescription medications containing codeine.
- Schedule IV drugs: These have an even lower potential for abuse and include medications like Xanax, Valium and other anti-anxiety drugs.
- Schedule V drugs: They have the lowest potential for abuse and can include medications with small amounts of narcotics, such as cough syrups containing codeine.
Understanding how drugs are scheduled can help you understand the legal system and anticipate the severity of the case.
What Are The Penalties For A Drug Conviction In Maryland?
Legally, penalties for a drug conviction vary based on the type of drug, the quantity involved and the nature of the offense – whether possession, distribution or manufacturing. For example, possession of a small amount of marijuana may result in fines or community service, while trafficking heroin or cocaine can lead to years in prison and hefty fines.
Beyond legal repercussions, a drug conviction can leave a lasting impact on your life. A criminal record can make finding employment, securing housing or obtaining professional licenses challenging. Additionally, the social stigma associated with a drug conviction may strain personal relationships and limit opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Free Consultation With an Experienced Drug Charge Defense Attorney
If you face drug charges in Maryland, contact me, Maryland criminal defense attorney Charles L. Waechter, for help. With years of experience handling complex drug cases, I understand the nuances of Maryland law and the strategies necessary to protect your rights. Call 410-886-7476 or use the online form to schedule a free consultation today to explore your case’s legal options.