The Maryland Laws Governing Illegal Drugs
The state of Maryland takes a somewhat unique approach to the criminalization of illegal drugs, identifying an illegal drug as a “controlled dangerous substance,” or CDS. All controlled dangerous substances are then categorized into 5 schedules, based on the recognized medical value and the likelihood of abuse. Those which are most susceptible to misuse and have the least proven medical benefit fall under Schedule I, and those with the most medical value and least risk of addiction or abuse are in Schedule V.
The Penalties Associated with Controlled Dangerous Substances
As a general rule, the penalties are most severe for crimes involving Schedule I and II drugs, and become less onerous with Schedule III, IV and V substances. For example, conviction of a Schedule I offense may result in up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of as much as $25,000. The most severe penalties for Schedule III, IV and V crimes is five years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
Proven Baltimore Drug Crimes Lawyer
For more than 30 years, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith has zealously protected the rights of criminal defendants across Baltimore and throughout the state of Maryland, including many people facing prosecution for DWI or DUI. SuperLawyers lists him among the top 100 lawyers in Maryland and The American Lawyer Magazine has also named him a Top-Rated Lawyer.
Jonathan has received an AV-rating (the highest possible) under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System every year since 1988. He has also earned Martindale-Hubbell’s coveted Client Distinction Award, given to less than 4% of all attorneys in Maryland. He enjoys a 10.0 (Superb rating) as a trial lawyer from AVVO and has also earned AVVO’s Client’s Choice Award, with an average client review of 5 stars.
A proven trial attorney, Jonathan brings an extensive knowledge of criminal law and procedure to every case, as well as considerable experience successfully handling a wide range of criminal matters. He knows how to effectively gather and preserve evidence and will take all necessary measures to ensure that law enforcement officers did not violate your constitutional rights.
Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in the Greater Baltimore Area
At the law offices of Jonathan Scott Smith, we fight for the rights of criminal defendants throughout Baltimore County and the surrounding communities. Contact us online or call 410-740-0101 to arrange a meeting. We handle cases throughout Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Howard County, Baltimore County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County in Maryland.
