Top Crofton, MD Drug Crime Lawyers Near You

What are some examples of drug-related crimes?

Drug crimes involve any actions related to the use of local, state, or federally banned narcotics like heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine. Some common drug crimes include selling, distributing, consuming, or possessing these substances. The illegal use of prescription drugs like oxycodone and Vicodin also falls under this category. For example, if you police find you with oxycodone, but you do not have a prescription for it, you are likely to be arrested.

How are drug abuse and drug crimes linked?

While many city governments and law enforcement agencies are placing less emphasis on arresting people possessing small amounts of drugs, if you are caught buying drugs and police are targeting a dealer, you could also face arrest. However, many courts are also offering alternative sentencing options for people struggling with addiction who want to get clean.

What makes a drug crime a federal crime?

Nearly any drug offense could see you end up in the federal system because these substances are all banned under federal law. If federal officers, such as those with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), are conducting operations in your area, an arrest by one of those officers would likely lead to federal charges. Using illegal drugs on federal property, such as national parks, can also lead to drug charges. While federal officials often target distributors and traffickers more than people possessing a small amount of drugs, the potential does still exist.

How an Attorney Can Help

An attorney can often resolve your particular legal issue faster and better than trying to do it alone. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, while avoiding costly mistakes or procedural errors. You should seek out an attorney whose practice focuses on the area of law most relevant to your issue.

What to Expect from an Initial Consultation

• Seek to determine whether the attorney can represent you. There is no one-size-fits-all legal solution and it may turn out your needs are better served by an attorney in a different specialization.
• It’s important to find a legal ally who is both competent in the law and someone you can trust to protect your interests.
• Discuss how the practice’s billing works and discuss possible additional charges or fees that may arise during or after the resolution of your case.

An attorney consultation should provide you with enough information so that you can make an informed decision on whether to proceed with legal help.

Tips on Hiring an Experienced Lawyer with Drug Crime Cases

The more experienced a lawyer is in legal practice, the more likely he/she will be able to bring about a successful resolution to your issue. Since experience matters, lawyers who’ve been practicing law for many years (with a successful track record) tend to be in high demand. You should look for information about a lawyer’s experience and ask questions during the initial meeting. It’s a very good idea to ask the lawyer how many years he/she has been practicing law and the expected outcome of your case.

Common legal terms explained

Plaintiff – a person or party who brings a lawsuit against another person(s) or party/parties in a court of law. Private persons or parties can only file suit in civil court.

Judgment – A decision of the court. Also known as a decree or order. Judgments handed down by the court are usually binding on the parties before the court.