Drug Crime Attorney in Wicomico County

Facing a Drug Arrest? Get Trusted Legal Representation in Wicomico County

Being arrested or charged with a drug crime in Wicomico County can bring a wave of uncertainty, stress, and concern for the future. The consequences can be serious—from your freedom and record to your work and reputation. At MacDonald Law Office, LLC, our team understands what you are going through, and we are ready to defend your rights. 

As drug attorneys in Wicomico County with prosecutorial background and local courtroom knowledge, we provide the strategic defense and personal guidance you need at this critical moment. If you need a responsive team that treats your case as a top priority, we are here to help you get started.

No drug arrest is too minor to be ignored, and every case deserves individual attention. Whether you’re facing charges for possession, distribution, or another allegation involving controlled substances, our attorneys deliver honest guidance and a strong defense founded on local experience. Here’s how we work to put you back in control and protect your future.

Contact our experienced drug crimes attorney in Wicomico County anytime. Call (410) 348-7809 or fill out this online form to schedule your free initial consultation.

Understanding Maryland Drug Crimes Laws and Classifications

Maryland law classifies drug crimes based on two main factors: the schedule of the drug (I through V) and the activity (possession versus intent to distribute). The vast majority of charges fall under Criminal Law Title 5.

Common Drug Crimes We Handle in Wicomico County

• Simple Possession (Misdemeanor): Involves possessing controlled substances like cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, or prescription drugs for personal use. Punishable by up to 4 years in prison and/or a $25,000 fine.
• Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID) (Felony): Charged when prosecutors allege the drugs were intended for sale or distribution. Carries up to 20 years in prison and significant fines depending on the substance.
• Drug Trafficking (Felony): Involves large-scale distribution or possession above statutory weight thresholds (e.g., 448 grams of cocaine). Triggers mandatory minimum prison terms and fines reaching $100,000 or more.
• Marijuana Distribution (Felony): Despite relaxed cannabis laws, unlicensed sale or possession of large quantities can lead to up to 5 years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
• Prescription Fraud (Felony): Includes forging prescriptions, doctor shopping, or using false identities to obtain medications. Punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a $100,000 fine.
• Drug Manufacturing (Felony): Covers cultivating marijuana, producing methamphetamine, or processing controlled substances. Penalties can reach up to 20 years in prison and $25,000 in fines.
• Drug Paraphernalia Possession (Misdemeanor): Involves items like syringes, scales, or baggies used in drug consumption or packaging. Carries up to 1 year in jail and/or a $500 fine.
• Conspiracy to Distribute (Felony): Agreeing or collaborating with others to sell or distribute drugs. Penalties mirror those of the underlying distribution charge—up to 20 years in prison for Schedule I/II drugs.
• Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (Misdemeanor): Operating a vehicle while impaired by a controlled substance. Can result in up to 1 year in jail, license suspension, and substantial fines.

The Maryland Criminal Defense Process for Drug Crimes

Defending a drug crimes case requires a strategy informed by knowledge of both the Maryland Code and the specific procedures of the Wicomico County State's Attorney's Office.

• Challenging the Stop and Search (Fourth Amendment): The vast majority of drug crimes cases start with a vehicle stop or a search warrant. We file motions to suppress evidence if the police lacked reasonable suspicion for the stop or probable cause for the search, often leading to the dismissal of the charges.
• Forensic and Procedural Review: We analyze the State's lab work, including the chain of custody and testing accuracy, to challenge the identification and weight of the alleged controlled substance.
• Negotiation for Diversion/Probation Before Judgment (PBJ): For eligible clients, we aggressively pursue a PBJ disposition, which is not a conviction and allows the case to be expunged later. For simple possession, we argue for placement in specialized drug treatment court.
• Attacking Intent: We leverage the evidence to argue that the State cannot prove intent to distribute, forcing the charge to be reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Drug Crimes Defense

At MacDonald Law Office, LLC, we provide a defense strategy that is proactive and powerful.

We are former prosecutors—this is our core strategic advantage. We possess the insider knowledge of how the Wicomico County State's Attorney's Office builds its case and determines its charging decisions. We use this unique insight to expose flaws in the police investigation and evidence gathering.

Defense strategies we utilize as a leading Wicomico County drug crimes defense lawyer:

• Suppression of Evidence: Aggressively pursuing the exclusion of drugs and statements obtained through unlawful means.
• Challenging Constructive Possession: Creating reasonable doubt regarding the client's knowledge or control over the location of the drugs.
• Arguing Personal Use: Presenting evidence to negate the intent to distribute, thus forcing the reduction of the charge from a felony to a misdemeanor.
• Challenging Confidential Informants: Thoroughly cross-examining witnesses who may be motivated by leniency or payment.

Local Defense Backed by Prosecutorial Experience

At MacDonald Law Office, LLC, every client meets with a drug defense attorney who understands both sides of Maryland’s criminal law. Our founders, Andrew and Cynthia MacDonald, bring years of experience as former prosecutors in this region, now devoted to criminal defense. This dual perspective lets us evaluate your drug charges as a prosecutor would, anticipate legal strategies, and expose weaknesses in the state’s case before they become problems for you.

You’ll work directly with our attorneys—not just support staff—through every stage of your case. We focus on quick review of the facts, early intervention, and strategic negotiations, always keeping you informed of your rights and options. Our approach to drug cases is built on meticulous attention to detail and clear communication with every client, so you feel supported and empowered from the outset.

What to Do After a Drug Arrest: Step-by-Step Guidance

If you have been arrested for a drug offense, there are certain steps you should take right away to protect your future. Acting quickly and making the right moves from the beginning is essential.

After a drug arrest in Wicomico County, focus on these priorities:

• Remain silent until you have a lawyer. Anything you say to police or others may be used against you.
• Write down important details from your arrest. Record names, locations, events, and any potential witnesses or unusual police actions.
• Save evidence and communication. Keep texts, call logs, or other records relevant to your case.
• Reach out to a drug arrest attorney in Wicomico County as soon as possible. Early representation can help protect your rights and may create opportunities to resolve the case before it escalates.

Our local presence means we can often meet quickly—in person or by phone—to get started. We will review your situation, help you understand what to expect next, and begin building the strongest possible defense from day one.

How Our Team Builds Your Defense in the Local Courts

Success in a drug case comes down to experience, investigation, and advocacy inside the Wicomico County justice system. Our attorneys guide you through every step by focusing on what matters in local courtrooms and negotiations.

Here is how we prepare your defense as drug crime lawyers in Wicomico County:

• Review all aspects of police stops, searches, and arrests to identify violations or weak evidence
• Negotiate with prosecutors based on our knowledge of their strategies and priorities
• Advise you on outcomes such as dismissals, diversions, plea offers, or trial—explaining what’s most likely for your facts
• Appear at every hearing, ensuring you always have experienced representation with you

Our history includes defending everything from first-time possession charges to complex cases involving multiple substances and allegations of distribution. We ensure you always understand your defense and feel prepared for every decision along the way.

Why Local, Personal Representation Matters in Drug Cases

When facing a drug charge in Wicomico County, local knowledge and personal service can make a crucial difference. We believe direct attorney contact and responsiveness ease the stress of the process and result in better outcomes.

Our Salisbury office is located across from the district court for your convenience. We accommodate urgent needs, offering flexible scheduling and often same-day meetings. Clients trust us for our accessibility, our willingness to answer questions without delay, and our genuine investment in their success from start to finish. This personal, local focus is what separates us from larger or non-local defense firms.

Talk to a Wicomico County Drug Attorney Today

Taking the right action after a drug arrest protects your future. Our attorneys are prepared to meet with you immediately and provide straightforward answers about your risks and your options. When you contact our team, you speak directly with a defense lawyer who knows the Wicomico County system and can help you make smart, informed decisions.

Benefit from our combination of prosecutorial experience, local court insight, and hands-on client service. There's no complicated process or delay—we make your next steps simple and focused on results.

Call (410) 348-7809 or reach out online now to connect directly with a drug attorney in Wicomico County and start building your defense today.