Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland

Drugs in my friends car. I was in my friends car and he was pulled over. He consented to a search. In his car, he had a roach, several pipes ( one of which was in the passenger side door cubby of his pick up), and marijuana seeds and shake. The officer arrested me for possession of marijuana ( the roach and seeds and shake) and for the pipes.

I did not know any of that stuff was in his car, and i believe the driver didn't know either.

I have court on august 16, in Ocean City, M.D.

what should i do?

i dont want to pay for a lawyer because to me, its obvious that i'm innocent; but i worry that the judge may not be a reasonable man, and therefore, warrant me paying the expensive lawyer fees.

furthermore, if the driver claims all the items in his car to be his own, will my charges be dropped?


Asked on 5/22/10, 10:21 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Bill Wood Law Office of William C. Wood, LLC

The outcome will depend on a number of factors. The State must prove that you had either actual or constructive knowledge of the drugs and paraphernalia. Constructive knowledge depends on several factors including the ownership of the vehicle, where you were in relation to the contraband, whether it was in plain sight, whether there was evidence that the drugs had been consumed by you, etc. You will not necessarily be absolved if the driver takes full responsibility. Your prior record, if any, may also affect the outcome.

I would recommend that you consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to discuss potential defenses and to prepare a strategy. Even if you think you are not guilty, it is generally a bad idea to go into court unrepresented in a criminal matter.

Feel free to contact my office. I handle criminal matters in Ocean City and would be happy to discuss your case with you.

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Answered on 5/25/10, 11:31 am
William Welch William L. Welch, III Attorney

If convicted, the innocent get sentenced just like the guilty. All of the questions you ask are the reasons people get lawyers. Perhaps the innocent need lawyers most of all. I offer a free initial consultation.

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Answered on 5/25/10, 2:10 pm


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