Worcester County Criminal Defense Attorney

Drug Possession and Distribution in Maryland

Like many states, it is illegal in Maryland to possess, obtain, or minister a prohibited controlled substance. Recall that the state classifies such illicit drugs in 5 different schedules from most dangerous to least dangerous:

• Schedule I – heroin, marijuana, LSD, ecstasy, peyote
• Schedule II – cocaine, Vicodin, oxycodone, methamphetamines, painkillers, morphine, stimulants like Adderall, opium
• Schedule III – narcotics, codeine, anabolic steroids, ketamine
• Schedule IV – anti-anxiety medication like Xanax and Valium, sedatives like Ambien, epileptic medication like Ativan
• Schedule V – cough suppressants containing small amounts of codeine like Robitussin, pain medication

The penalties for possession of any of the above depend on the type of the drug and amount in question. The penalties may also rise if the defendant possessed such substances with intent to distribute. For each drug’s specific sentencing guidelines, visit our Drug Crimes page.

Note that the penalties could significantly increase if the drug offense relates to sale, distribution, or manufacture, rather than personal possession. The sentence will similarly vary based on the amount in question and the type of the drug, but the general penalties involving sale or distribution of a narcotic drug is 20 years in prison and a fine of $25,000 ($100,000 for second or subsequent offenses). 

Criminalized Gun Crimes

Another category of criminal offense in Maryland is gun crimes. There are several circumstances that might result in a gun crime, such as:

• carrying a handgun without a legal permit;
• carrying a dangerous weapon without a permit or reasonable authorization;
• possessing banned weapons;
• possessing a deadly weapon on school grounds;
• using a gun while committing a violent crime or felony;
• possessing a firearm as a felon.

The penalties for the above will vary depending on the offense. For instance, unpermitted handgun carry could warrant up to 3 years in prison and/or a fine of $250-$2,500, and possession of a banned weapon could range from 3 years in prison and a $5,000 fine (for banned assault guns) to 25 years in prison and a $250,000 fine (for destructive devices). Additionally, using a gun or firearm while committing a crime could lead to a 5-20-year prison sentence that will be in addition to the jail time ordered for the underlying offense.