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Drug Crimes

Howard County Drug Crime Attorneys

Defending Against Possession, Sales & Manufacturing Charges in Columbia, MD

Any type of drug-related crime arrest is one of the scariest legal situations to find yourself in. In addition to law enforcement focusing on keeping drugs off the street, judges in criminal courts tend to rule heavily against drug perpetrators. If you have been charged or accused of engaging in any type of illegal activity involving drugs, you should seek legal representation right away. At Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake, we fight aggressively against all drug charges. From misdemeanor possession to felony charges, you can depend on our Columbia drug crime lawyers to stand by your side.

We're here to take your call and provide you with a defense. Call us at (410) 927-5137 or contact us online to make an appointment.

Understanding Drug Charges in Maryland

In the state of Maryland, drug crimes are covered under Criminal Law, Title 5 of the Maryland Code. An individual can be charged with a drug crime for anything as minor as possession of more than 10 grams of marijuana to the distribution of any controlled substances. This may include cocaine, meth, heroin, or illegal prescription drugs. The possible penalties you could face if convicted depend on the type of drug and the nature of the charge, as well as your past criminal history. If you are convicted, you could face treatment, jail or prison time, large fines, and several other civil and criminal penalties.

We represent drug charges such as:

  • Cultivation
  • Possession
  • Trafficking
  • Manufacturing
  • Distribution

Strong Legal Representation for Drug Charges in Howard County

Being arrested for a drug crime charge is not only scary, but it can also lead to serious consequences. Fortunately, our Howard County drug crime defense lawyers at Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake provide strong legal representation for all felony and misdemeanor charges. We are dedicated to thoroughly investigating your case and charges to establish the most effective defense strategy for you.

If you're facing drug charges, we're here 24/7 to answer your call. Contact us at (410) 927-5137.

See Why We're the Right Choice

Reasons to Choose Our Firm
  • We approach every case as a team.
  • Every initial consultation is free and no-obligation.
  • We are available for you 24/7.
  • We are a team of former prosecutors and know how the other side thinks.
  • We have in-house payment plan options on qualifying cases.
  • We are highly recommended and awarded by various associations.

A High-Quality Reputation

Read Reviews from Real People
    "Mr. Lake's reputation for integrity, diligence and competence which he earned as a former Assistant States Attorney and while he has been in private practice aided him in achieving the result he did."
    I am a retired Attorney who recommended a personal friend to Justin Lake. I received his name by speaking with an old friend of mine who is still considered one of the top criminal lawyers in Maryland. My friend was clearly guilty of driving while impaired as was evidenced by a video taken at the scene by the investigating officer and the fact that he failed the breathalyzer test. A verdict of Probation Before Judgement or Guilty would have been life altering for him and his family in that it could have resulted in his deportation from this Country and the absolute prohibition of his being able to apply for admission of his family in to the United States. My friend had learned that he had been granted asylum three days before he was charged. Aside from that charge he had an impeccable record. He is employed by a continuing care community where his service is valued which is evidenced by the excellent job reviews he has consistently received. Mr. Lake was engaged to represent him and charged a fee customary for representing someone charged with such an infraction. I know from my experience that he expended far more time on the case than he was compensated for, but he did not ask for an increase in the fee. He spoke multiple times with an Assistant State's Attorney of the County as well as the States Attorney, removed the case to a higher Court and with the Assistant State's Attorney met with the Circuit Court Judge of the County. At that meeting Mr. Lake introduced a legal opinion prepared by my friend's immigration attorneys with whom he conferred which set forth the aforementioned consequences that would ensue were any judgment aside from a PBJ(C) entered. It is the only judgment that would not impact his and his family's immigration status. Such a judgment is extremely rare. I am of the opinion that Mr. Lake's reputation for integrity, diligence and competence which he earned as a former Assistant States Attorney and while he has been in private practice aided him in achieving the result he did.
    - Rosser
    "Will Be In Good Hands"
    I never hesitate to refer any potential clients with criminal defense needs to Justin Lake or David Zwanetz
    - Joe M.
    "Easy to work with"
    Prompt, professional, and easy to work with as a client.
    - Zach S.
This Isn't a "Paycheck" This Is Our Calling

At Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake (SZL) we believe in thinking differently from most lawyers and law firms. We help our clients understand and accept their legal situation; we work with them to confront and improve that situation, while seeking the best outcome available at law. We recognize that each client is a unique individual, each deserving of the highest client/customer service; and we just happen to get our clients excellent results while we deliver that exceptional service.