Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland

Re: arrested for possesion of a controlled substance (cocaine)

The penalty for the possession of cocaine is: "(e) Any person who violates this section shall, upon conviction, be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and be sentenced to a term of imprisonment for not more than four (4) years, a fine of not more than twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000), or both;" More important than the fine is the fact that you have the conviction, which could affect your future job opportunities. You should consult with an attorney to determine if the police followed correct procedure in arresting you, that the chain of custody of the drugs was perserved, that the charging document is correct, that the State's attorney has notified you correctly if they are not going to have the chemist in court. You may e-mail me at [email protected] if you have further questions.

Re: arrested for possesion of a controlled substance not canibis

The maximum jail time and/or fine should appear on

the charging document. You should have received

a copy of the charging document. This information

can also be obtained from the "Crimes and Punish-

ments" Article 27, Maryland Annotated Code which

are in all public libraries.

If you are found guilty by way of a plea of guilty

or a trial; the court may impose a fine, order you

into drug counseling, impose supervised or un-

supervised probation or all of the above.

Hope this helps.

C. Michael Bradshaw

Re: arrested for possesion of a controlled substance not canibis

The penalty for the possession of cocaine is up to 4 years imprisonment and a fine of not more $25,000. Various mitigation strategies can be utilized to reduce the harshness of the penalty. More important is whether the State's case is worthy of attaining a guilty conviction.

Contact an attorney immediately as you are at risk of a serious conviction.

G. Joseph Holthaus, Esq.

(410) 799-9002

Howard County Maryland

Re: arrested for possesion of a controlled substance not canibis

You need to hire an attorney in Maryland. I do not recommend that you go to court without representation.

I am an attorney in NY & NJ. In NJ we have what is called a conditional discharge, where you would be placed on probation. If you successfully complete the probation the matter would be dismissed.

I am sure there is something to this effect in Maryland; this is why you must find an attorney.

Good luck.

If you do not know whom to hire, I would be more than happy to recommend an attorney for you.

Savy Grant

201-646-9600