Drug Distribution Lawyer in Howard County
Felony Defense for Distribution & Possession with Intent Charges in Maryland
A drug distribution charge in Howard County, Maryland is a felony from the moment it’s filed. Unlike simple possession, which is typically a misdemeanor, distribution and possession with intent to distribute (PWID) carry multi-decade prison sentences and fines reaching tens of thousands of dollars. The decisions you make in the first hours after an arrest can shape every stage of what follows.
Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake represents clients facing drug charges ranging from misdemeanor possession to serious felony distribution cases. We’re available around the clock, and every initial consultation is free with no obligation.
If you’ve been arrested on a distribution charge in Howard County, don’t wait. Call Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake at (410) 927-5137 to speak with our team today.
A Howard County Firm Built for Felony Defense
Founded in 2005, Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake has been based in Howard County throughout its history. We deliberately limit the number of cases we accept so every client receives focused, attentive representation rather than being passed down a long queue. Our team-led approach means each attorney contributes distinct strengths to your defense rather than working in isolation.
Several attorneys on our team previously worked as prosecutors. That background gives us direct insight into how the Howard County State’s Attorney’s Office approaches distribution cases, the evidence it prioritizes, and where prosecution theories tend to be most vulnerable. Combined with over 50 years of collective legal experience and recognition, including Superb Avvo Ratings and high rankings from U.S. News & World Report, we bring real preparation to every case we take. In-house payment plan options are available on qualifying cases.
What Maryland Law Defines as Drug Distribution
Under Maryland Criminal Law Section 5-602, it is a crime to distribute a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) or to possess a CDS in a quantity that reasonably indicates an intent to distribute. That second prong is critical: prosecutors don’t need evidence of an actual sale. Intent can be inferred from the quantity of drugs found, how they’re packaged (multiple small bags, for example), the presence of a digital scale, or other paraphernalia. A large amount of cash can factor in as well.
Commonly charged substances include Schedule I and II narcotics such as heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine, along with prescription medications possessed or distributed without a valid prescription. The specific substance matters because it determines which penalty tier applies.
See Why We're the Right Choice
Reasons to Choose Our Firm
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We approach every case as a team.
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Every initial consultation is free and no-obligation.
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We are available for you 24/7.
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We are a team of former prosecutors and know how the other side thinks.
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We have in-house payment plan options on qualifying cases.
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We are highly recommended and awarded by various associations.
A High-Quality Reputation
Read Reviews from Real People
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"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
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"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.
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"Easy to work with"Prompt, professional, and easy to work with as a client.- Zach S.
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.
How a Howard County Drug Distribution Case Moves Through the Courts
Most cases begin with an investigation by the Howard County Police Department, which refers charges to the Howard County State’s Attorney’s Office for prosecution. Because distribution is a felony, the State’s Attorney’s Office screens the case and typically presents it to a grand jury to seek an indictment before the matter proceeds.
Felony distribution charges are heard in the Circuit Court for Howard County, located in Ellicott City. Misdemeanor drug charges follow a different path through the District Court. The felony process includes arraignment, discovery, pre-trial motions, and, if necessary, trial. Because several of our attorneys prosecuted cases before moving into defense, we don’t have to guess how the State’s Attorney’s Office thinks. We already know.
Speak with Our Howard County Defense Team Today
A felony distribution charge puts your freedom, your record, and your future at stake. Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for urgent questions after an arrest or ahead of a court date. Your first consultation is free and carries no obligation.
Reach Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake at (410) 927-5137 or contact us through this site’s contact form to schedule your consultation.
