Ocean City, MD Criminal Defense Lawyer
A Former Prosecutor With A Unique Background Unparalleled In The Legal Field
Navigating the criminal justice system can seem frightening and overwhelming. However, with a seasoned attorney like Julie M. Guyer, you need not fret. Attorney Guyer has over 30 years of experience in criminal law, vigorously defending clients against various criminal charges, from drug offenses to gun and violent offenses.
- Drug Crimes: This refers to offenses involving the illegal possession, use, sale, or distribution of substances classified as having a potential for abuse, such as cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamines.
- Drug DUI: This is a charge for driving under the influence of drugs. It involves operating a vehicle while impaired by illegal drugs or prescription medications.
- Felony DUI: This is a more severe form of DUI that usually involves repeat offenses, causing bodily harm or death because of drunk driving. The penalties are significantly harsher than a regular DUI.
- Gun Crimes: These are crimes involving the illegal possession, use, sale, or distribution of firearms. This can include carrying a firearm without a permit, using a firearm in the commission of a crime, or unlawful sale or distribution of firearms.
- Multiple DUI: This term refers to being charged with DUI multiple times. Repeat offenders often face stiffer penalties, including longer jail sentences, larger fines, and more stringent probation terms.
- Underage DUI: This charge is applied when a person under the legal drinking age of 21 is found driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Penalties can include license suspension, fines, probation, and even jail time.
Why Choose Julie M. Guyer, Attorney at Law?
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30+ Years of Criminal Law Experience
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Available 24/7 for Legal Advice
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Your Initial Consultation Is Free
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Former Prosecutor & Maryland State Trooper
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“Julie is an excellent attorney. She makes the process easy and stress free in the courtroom. I highly recommend if you are in a pinch one day.”Sean P.
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“Requiring legal advice, I contacted Julie Guyer on a holiday weekend. I quickly realized that she is both extremely competent and passionate about her discipline.”Chris
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“With experience as a police officer and an attorney, Julie knows both sides and sets realistic expectations. She is straightforward, but compassionate. I cannot say enough good things about her! I highly recommend her!”Marianne J.
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“Julie recently represented my husband in court and made the entire process smooth and painless. Her knowledge of the law put us at ease and we couldn't have asked for better representation.”Celia P.
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“I Would Have Lost Everything”J.F.
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“Highly Professional”C.T.
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“Excellent Lawyer”W.P.
Understanding Maryland Drug Possession and Distribution Laws
In Ocean City, Maryland, as in the rest of the state, the possession, acquisition, or distribution of prohibited controlled substances is considered a criminal act. The substances deemed illegal are categorized into five schedules based on their perceived risk and potential for abuse.
Schedule I encompasses substances considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. This category includes drugs such as heroin, marijuana, LSD, ecstasy, and peyote.
Schedule II substances also have a high potential for abuse but may have some accepted medical uses with severe restrictions. These include cocaine, methamphetamines, oxycodone, Vicodin, painkillers like morphine, and stimulants such as Adderall and opium.
Schedule III drugs have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule I and II substances and have accepted medical uses. Narcotics, codeine, anabolic steroids, and ketamine fall under this category.
Schedule IV drugs have a low potential for abuse compared to Schedule III substances and are commonly prescribed for medical purposes. Anti-anxiety medications like Xanax and Valium, sedatives like Ambien, and epilepsy medications like Ativan are examples.
Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse. These include cough suppressants with small amounts of codeine, like Robitussin, and certain pain medications.
The penalties for drug offenses in Ocean City, MD, can significantly escalate if the crime involves the sale, distribution, or manufacture of these substances rather than personal possession. Sentences are determined based on the quantity and type of drug involved. The sale or distribution of a narcotic drug could lead to a punishment of 20 years in prison and a fine of $25,000. For second or subsequent offenses, the fine can increase to $100,000. It's crucial to understand these laws to prevent inadvertently violating them.
Violent Crimes in Ocean City, MD: Assault, Murder, and Manslaughter
Violent crimes, particularly assault, murder, and manslaughter, are treated with utmost severity in Ocean City, Maryland. The state's legal system imposes substantial penalties for these offenses to deter such violent acts and maintain public safety.
- Assault: Also known as battery, assault involves intentional harmful or offensive contact with another individual. Conviction can result in up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
- Felony Assault: If the assault is committed against certain protected individuals like police officers, correctional officers, parole agents, firefighters, or other first responders, it's classified as felony assault. This crime carries even sterner penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
- Murder and Manslaughter: These are among the most serious offenses under Maryland law. Murder involves the intentional killing of another person, while manslaughter refers to unintentional killing. Both crimes carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.
Being charged with a violent crime can be an overwhelming experience, leading to fear and stress. However, remember that there is always hope. With the support of an experienced defense attorney like Julie M. Guyer, you can navigate the demanding criminal justice system effectively. Attorney Guyer is a devoted and relentless advocate who strives to achieve the best possible outcome for her clients. Don't face your legal battle alone; let Attorney Guyer champion your defense today.
Protect your future with Julie M. Guyer, Attorney at Law. Contact her online or call (410) 834-0373 for a free consultation to discuss your legal options today.