Maryland Attorney Fights for People Charged With Drug Offenses

Dedicated defense lawyer for all controlled substance prosecutions

Harsh punishments for drug-related offenses have created numerous problems for individuals in Maryland. A strong, experienced defense lawyer can help clients take advantage of recent legal reforms and press for a result that truly reflects justice. At the Law Office of Keith A. Showstack, PC in Riverdale, I fight on behalf of clients who are accused of drug-related offenses and other charges. With over 20 years of legal experience, I know how to challenge state evident and make full use of all available defenses. Whether you need a tough trial advocate or someone to negotiate for a favorable plea agreement, I have the skill and determination to protect your rights.

Understanding Maryland’s laws on cannabis possession

Maryland decriminalized possession of small amounts of marijuana and other cannabis products as of July 1, 2023. As a result, it is legal for adults over 21 years of age to possess, for personal use, up to 1.5 ounces of marijuana. Personal use also includes cultivation of up to two cannabis plants.

However, possession of higher amounts is still subject to civil or criminal penalties, as follows:

• Possession of more than 1.5 ounces but less than 2.5 ounces of marijuana is a civil offense, punishable by a $250 fine.
• Possession of more than 2.5 ounces but less than 50 pounds is a misdemeanor, carrying a jail sentence of up to one year, a fine of up to $1,000 or both.
• Possession of 50 pounds or more is a felony, carrying a jail sentence of five years, a fine of up to $100,000, or both.

Possession of more than 2.5 ounces of marijuana with intent to distribute is a felony. If the amount is less than 50 pounds, the punishment is up to five years imprisonment and a fine not exceeding $15,000 for a first offense. The penalties increase for greater amounts and for carrying on this activity near a school or on a school bus. Repeat offenders also face greater sentences.

Elimination of mandatory minimums gives some defendants a second chance

A 2017 Maryland law ended mandatory minimum sentences for repeat drug offenders. This was intended to reduce the unfairness of a system that made people feel compelled to plead guilty to a lesser charge.

However, tough sanctions still exist for certain crimes, including:

• Possession of other drugs — Holding crack, heroin, cocaine, fentanyl or any other non-marijuana controlled substances can lead to a one-year misdemeanor sentence for a first conviction, and tougher punishments for multiple offenders.
• Distribution or possession with intent to distribute — For illegal drugs other than marijuana, the first-time offender maximum penalty is up to 20 years prison.
• Drug kingpin — Someone who organizes, supervises, finances or manages the sale of controlled substances is subject to a maximum prison sentence of 40 years and a fine of up to $1 million.
• Common nuisance charges —When a vehicle, home or another type of structure is used to store, manufacture or sell drugs, it is classified as a common nuisance. The person who controls the property can face up to 20 years in prison.

Still, prosecutors try to pressure defendants into giving up their rights. Before you attempt to work things out on your own, it’s best to gain the perspective of a qualified drug-crime defense lawyer. My firm offers a free initial consultation to make things easy.

Tough advocate works to prevent the adverse effects of a drug conviction

The negative effects of a controlled substance conviction go beyond incarceration. Even a minor drug crime can prevent you from getting the job or home that you want. Information goes online quickly and often can’t be erased no matter how your live has changed. It can be easy to feel intimidated when you’re looking at a potentially heavy sentence, but I can often identify problems within the police process that can help exclude evidence and possibly lead to a dismissal or acquittal that keeps your record clean. When possible, my firm also helps clients pursue diversion or substance abuse treatment as alternatives to incarceration.

Contact a proven Maryland criminal defense attorney for a free consultation

The Law Office of Keith A. Showstack, P.C. represents Maryland clients in drug crime prosecutions and a full range of criminal defense matters. Please call 301-209-0055 or contact me online to schedule a free initial consultation at my office in Riverdale.