Drug Possession Attorney in Howard County

Supportive Defense When A Drug Charge Turns Your Life Upside Down

If you are facing a drug possession charge in Howard County, you are probably worried about your future, your family, and your record. An arrest can happen in a matter of minutes, yet the consequences can last for years. You may be trying to figure out which court you will have to appear in and what will happen when you get there.

At Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake, we focus on guiding people through moments like this. Our boutique criminal defense firm is based here in the county, and our attorneys bring over 50 years of collective legal skill to the courtroom. We intentionally keep a short client list so we can give each case the attention it deserves and keep communication clear from the first call through the final outcome.

Our team has earned recognition that includes Tier 1 Baltimore DUI defense rankings in U.S. News & World Report and Superb Avvo ratings. These honors reflect our commitment to careful preparation, strong advocacy, and client-centered service, qualities that matter just as much in drug possession cases. We offer free consultations and are available for urgent questions when an arrest or court date is weighing on you.

Protect your record and your future. Call a drug possession attorney in Howard County at (410) 927-5137 or contact us online for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to help.

Understanding Drug Possession Laws in Maryland

In Maryland, drug possession is governed by the Maryland Controlled Dangerous Substances Act. The law distinguishes between "civil use" amounts (typically associated with cannabis) and criminal possession of other substances. While cannabis laws have shifted toward legalization for small amounts, possession of other narcotics remains a serious criminal offense.

The substances most commonly involved in Howard County possession cases include:

• Schedule I & II Narcotics: Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine, and Crack Cocaine.
• Prescription Medications: Possession of Adderall, Xanax, or OxyContin without a valid prescription.
• Hallucinogens: LSD, PCP, and MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly).
• Synthetic Drugs: Synthetic cannabinoids and "bath salts."

Actual vs. Constructive Possession

One of the most critical aspects of your case is how the state defines "possession."

• Actual Possession: The drugs were found directly on your person (in your pocket or hand).
• Constructive Possession: The drugs were found in a place over which you had "dominion and control," such as your car's glove box or a shared apartment.

As your drug possession attorney in Howard County, we frequently challenge "constructive possession" charges, especially when drugs were found in a vehicle with multiple passengers or a home with several roommates.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences in Maryland

Maryland law imposes stiff penalties for the possession of any controlled dangerous substance other than cannabis. These are generally classified as misdemeanors, but the "misdemeanor" label belies the severity of the potential punishment.

• First Offense Possession (Not Marijuana): Up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
• Subsequent Offenses: For a second or third conviction, the penalty increases to up to 18 months in jail. For a fourth or subsequent offense, you may face up to 2 years of incarceration.
• Possession of Paraphernalia: Even if you do not have drugs on you, possessing items intended for drug use can result in a separate criminal charge and a $500 fine.

Beyond jail time, the collateral consequences are often the most damaging. A drug conviction can lead to the loss of professional licenses, ineligibility for certain student loans, and significant barriers to employment in the high-security and government contracting sectors prevalent in Howard County.

How Our Drug Possession Attorneys Defend Drug Charges

When you come to us about a possession allegation, we start by listening carefully to what happened. Then our attorneys look closely at the facts and the law to see how the case may be challenged or improved. Because we take a team-led approach, more than one lawyer contributes their strengths to your defense strategy, which can be especially valuable when the case involves complex searches or multiple officers.

Because we keep our client list intentionally short, we can devote significant time to reviewing discovery and planning for hearings. Our attorneys assess whether there are legal motions that may be appropriate, such as seeking to exclude evidence that was obtained in violation of your rights. We also consider practical factors, such as your prior record, employment, schooling, and treatment history, which can be important in discussions with the State’s Attorney’s Office.

Every possession case is different, and possible resolutions range from dismissals and diversions to plea agreements or trials. We do not promise specific results, because outcomes depend on the facts, the evidence, and the court. Our goal is to understand your priorities, explain the options in plain language, and work to position your case in the best way we can, whether that means pursuing negotiation, alternative programs where available, or preparing for contested proceedings.

Protect your record and your future. Call a drug possession attorney in Howard County at (410) 927-5137 or contact us online for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to help.