The attitudes towards marijuana laws in Maryland are changing. But despite the move towards more liberal attitudes, Maryland laws remain strict. If you are caught in possession of pot here, you will face consequences. The amount you have, your criminal history, and other facts about your case will determine just how harsh those consequences will be. Let us put you in contact with a local criminal defense lawyer, one that can provide an in depth consultation on your case and suggest how they might be able to help.
Marijuana possession remains a crime in Maryland
This is in stark contrast to many states in the country that have decriminalized marijuana possession. In those states you might get a ticket for a bag of week. In Maryland, you will face criminal charges.
Maryland Marijuana Possession Penalties
Interestingly, no matter how much weed you are found with, if it’s a straight possession charge, you will face the same penalty. In other words, it doesn’t matter if you’re found with a half-ounce or 4 pounds, as long as you aren’t charged with distribution, you will face a misdemeanor penalty of up to one year in jail and $1,000 in fines.
Possession of Marijuana Paraphernalia
Marijuana paraphernalia doesn’t carry potential jail time. But it is something that often accompanies a possession charge. Your rolling papers or pipe can be considered paraphernalia. This misdemeanor offense carries a fine of $500. It’s not until you have multiple charges of paraphernalia that you will face jail time, up to 2 years.
Sale, Delivery, Cultivation
Depending on the evidence in your case, the prosecutor may try to prove that you intended to sell marijuana, not simply use it. They can use things like the amount of pot, scales, baggies, and large amounts of cash to prove this “intent to sell”. Likewise, you can face harsher charges if there is evidence you did, in fact, sell or deliver the marijuana.
Generally, if you are accused of selling, delivering, or cultivating less than 50 pounds of marijuana, you will face up to 5 years in prison and $15,000. If the amount is more than 50 pounds, you will serve a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and possibly several more.
Ref: Maryland §5-601
Regardless of the charge, a marijuana charge can change the course of your life. An experienced defense lawyer may be able to help.
From questioning the search to the way the drugs were processed after the fact, your attorney will look at every angle to ensure your rights were protected at every stage of the game.
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