Annapolis Maryland Prescription Drugs Crime Attorney

Knowledgeable Annapolis Prescription Drug Defense Attorney

Aggressively fighting against prescription drug accusations in Maryland and federal courts

When you think of drug charges, prescription medications are probably not on your mind. Yet, under some circumstances, the possession of prescribed medications can result in a serious felony charge. If these drugs are being misused or illegally sold, the legal consequences can be severe.

If you are facing prescription drug-related charges, contact a skilled Annapolis prescription drug defense attorney at Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law. I am Gill Andrew Cochran, and I work with you to develop the aggressive defense your case requires.

Understanding drug schedule classifications

Maryland places prescription drugs into categories according to their potential for abuse. These are called “drug schedules,” and prescription drug classifications break down in this way:

  • Schedule I drugs. This class is considered the most dangerous. These substances have no legitimate medical purpose, so prescription drugs do not fall into this category.
  • Schedule II drugs. Medications in this class also pose a high rate of danger. Highly restrictive prescription drugs fall into this category, such as Oxycodone, morphine, Ritalin, Opium, and Vicodin.
  • Schedule III drugs. This class carries a moderate risk of danger and includes medications like Anabolic steroids and Marinol.
  • Schedule IV drugs. This class carries a low risk of danger, with limited potential for causing addiction. Xanax, Valium, and Ambien are included in this schedule.
  • Schedule V drugs. This class poses the least amount of risk for harm and addiction. Some over-the-counter medications are included in this classification, such as cough suppressants with codeine and Lyrica.

All drug charges are serious. A knowledgeable Annapolis prescription drug defense attorney helps you assert your rights and aggressively defends your innocence.

Consequences of a prescription drug conviction

Prescription drug charges vary based on a number of factors. The first is the type and quantity of medication involved in the accusation. Law enforcement officials generally treat Schedule II prescription drugs more severely than Schedule II and IV drugs. In addition, a greater amount of medications can elevate a charge from possession to distribution. While a possession penalty can potentially result in a simple fine, distribution penalties are much harsher. Distribution of even a Schedule III or IV prescription drug is classified as a felony, with a potential sentence of five years in jail.

Trafficking is the most severe drug charge under Maryland law, and it can apply to prescription drugs if law enforcement believes that you are part of an organized conspiracy to transport and distribute these medications. Trafficking allegations can also lead to federal charges, particularly if you are accused conspiring across state lines.

Prior offenses and location of the drugs can also affect the severity of charges filed and the potential level of punishment. An experienced Annapolis prescription drug lawyer analyzes every detail of your case to identify weaknesses in the state’s accusations and fight for the best possible outcome.

Trust your prescription drug case to an attorney with experience and knowledge in the Maryland and federal courts

At Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, I have spent years vigorously defending my clients throughout Maryland in a variety of drug-related cases. Let me put that experience to work for you. If you are facing prescription drug charges, call my office today at 410-271-1892 or complete my contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.

And remember: Keep Calm – and Call Drew.