Maryland Lawyer for MDMA Possession + Distribution
Facing criminal charges in Maryland is something no one should go through alone. The stress and difficulties associated with criminal charges can be enough to throw your life off balance, and without the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney, you could end up facing years of jail time for charges that might be unjustified. Our Maryland MDMA possession and distribution lawyers at Rice, Murtha & Psoras can help you defend yourself against your criminal charges.
We will fight aggressively and tirelessly to defend your rights every step of the way. Don’t wait another day; contact Rice, Murtha & Psoras for an experienced, competent criminal defense lawyer. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call our law offices today at (410) 431-0911.
Understanding Maryland MDMA Possession and Distribution Laws
MDMA – also known as “ecstasy,” “E,” or “Molly” – is classified as a Schedule I dangerous controlled substance, and its possession or distribution carries severe penalties. Ecstasy is classified this way because it is considered a dangerously addictive substance, lacking any medical value. Both the state and federal governments ban its possession, distribution, and manufacture.
Like many states and the federal government, Maryland divides drugs into different categories or “schedules” ranging from I to V. The lower the number, the more dangerous the substance and the more serious the penalties for using, possessing, or distributing it. Schedule I drugs include heroin, ecstasy, and LSD, which are dangerous and highly addictive. In contrast, Schedule V drugs include things such as cough syrups with codeine. If found guilty of possession or distribution of MDMA in Maryland – or any other drugs – you risk losing your freedom, paying steep fines, and having a criminal record.
If you were charged with a drug offense in Maryland, you need immediate legal representation. Our Maryland lawyer for MDMA possession and distribution at Rice, Murtha & Psoras can help.
Criminal Penalties for Possession and Distribution of MDMA in Maryland
As mentioned, Maryland criminalizes the possession and distribution of controlled substances, including ecstasy. The state’s penalties for drug possession can change depending on the circumstances of your case. For instance, simple possession carries up to a year in prison and up to $5,000 in criminal fines.
If you are caught a second time for the same criminal offense, your penalties can increase. A second or third simple possession conviction can carry up to one and a half years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines. If you are convicted of a fourth or subsequent simple possession, you may face up to two years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines. These criminal penalties are not to be taken lightly as they can affect multiple aspects of your life moving forward.
Things can become even more complicates if your charges involve possession with intent to distribute MDMA. If you are found guilty for a first or second MDMA distribution charge, you can face up to 20 years in prison and up to $15,000 in fines. For a third MDMA possession conviction, you may face up to 25 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines. For a subsequent offense, you risk up to 40 years in prison and up to 25,000 in criminal fines.
A conviction for any of these offenses will remain on your criminal record permanently. This can make it hard for you to find housing, qualify for loans, or find a job. Additionally, you may lose your firearm privileges. Make sure to contact a Maryland MDMA possession attorney if you were charged with possession or distribution or MDMA in Maryland.
Defenses to MDMA Possession and Distribution Charges in Maryland
Defending yourself against criminal charges requires extensive knowledge of Maryland’s criminal justice system and criminal law. It is in your best interest to have legal representation by your side at all times, especially if your charges are drug-related. Your criminal defense attorney can help you fight your MDMA possession or distribution charges by developing strategic arguments.
One of the arguments your attorney can raise during the trial is that your arresting officer lacked probable cause to believe you were committed a crime. In other words, if your arresting officer randomly targeted your residence and did not have a legally issued warrant based on probable cause, any physical evidence against you may be suppressed based on a violation of your constitutional rights.
Another possible defense in your case is a violation of your Fifth Amendment rights. Every defendant has a right to remain silent and protect themselves against self-incrimination. If police fail to warn you about your right to remain silent when you’re being questioned while in custody, evidence gained from the interrogation should be suppressed. Without evidence to support their case, the prosecution might not be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed a crime.
Any evidence seized must go through what is known as a “chain of custody.” The state has to keep a detailed, strict record of all the people entering into contact with evidence in police custody to preserve it and avoid tampering. In some instances, the prosecution might not be able to prove chain of custody, which might open the door to having the evidence thrown out. If a proper chain of custody cannot be proven, it could mean the process from collection of the evidence to the presentation in court might be tainted.
Our experienced Maryland MDMA possession and distribution attorneys have the necessary experience to spot any procedural or constitutional mistakes that may change the outcome of your case.
Maryland MDMA Possession + Distribution Lawyer Offering Free Consultations
If you or a loved one was charged with possession or distribution of MDMA in Maryland, we may be able to assist. Backed by years of experience in criminal law, our Maryland MDMA possession and distribution attorneys can help you understand your rights and guide you through your case. We know how difficult and stressful dealing with criminal charges can be, which is why we dedicate our resources and knowledge to fighting for your rights every step of the way. Don’t wait another second; call Rice, Murtha & Psoras for quality legal representation. To schedule a free, confidential consultation on your case, call our law offices today at (410) 431-0911.