The Five Categories of Controlled Dangerous Substances

In the state of Maryland, by statute, controlled dangerous substances fall into five different categories, based on the likelihood of abuse and addiction, as well as the recognized medical value. Those drugs with the least medical value and greatest potential for addiction or abuse are found on Schedule I. Schedules II-V contain those controlled substances that have greater medical use and less risk. As a general rule, the penalties are assessed according to the type of CDS involved.

The Different Potential Penalties for Sale of a CDS

Conviction for the sale of a CDS in Maryland can result in the following consequences:

• Schedule I and II drugs—
  • First conviction— A fine of up to $25,000 and incarceration for up to 5 years, or both
  • Second conviction—$100,000 fine or 10 years of incarceration, or both
  • Third conviction—$100,000 fine or 25 years in prison, or both
  • Fourth conviction—$100,000 fine or 40 years in prison, or both
• Schedule III, IV, and V substances—
  • First conviction—A fine of up to $15,000 or up to five years in prison, or both
  • All subsequent convictions—$15,000 fine and additional five years in prison, or both

AV-Rated Howard County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith is AV-rated by other attorneys under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review System and has been honored as a Maryland Super Lawyer. He received the Client’s Choice Award from AVVO, with an average client review of 5stars(the highest rating possible) and was named a 2012 Top-Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine. He has a perfect 10.0 (Superb) rating as a litigation attorney from AVVO.

Attorney Smith brings more than 30 years of experience to criminal defendants throughout the greater Baltimore area and across the state of Maryland. He’ll aggressively protect your constitutional rights in any criminal matter, from investigation and arrest to arraignment and trial. He’ll conduct a thorough investigation in order to prepare and present the most compelling arguments for your acquittal. He’s a proven trial attorney, with the experience, skill, knowledge, and resources to protect your rights in any criminal matter.

Columbia, Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney

Contact criminal defense lawyer Jonathan Scott Smith by e-mail or call our office at 410-740-0101 for an appointment. We handle criminal prosecutions in Howard County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County, and Montgomery County in Maryland.