Controlled substance importation charges in Prince George’s County, Maryland, are prosecuted under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq., carrying severe federal penalties including mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — has extensive criminal defense experience in Prince George’s County, providing strategic representation for clients facing these serious allegations.
Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer in Prince George’s County, Maryland
Federal importation of controlled substances is prosecuted under the Controlled Substances Act, specifically 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. This statute prohibits the importation, exportation, and distribution of controlled substances across U.S. borders. In Prince George’s County, these charges are typically investigated by federal agencies such as the DEA, HSI, and CBP, and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. Federal drug penalties are significantly harsher than state charges, with mandatory minimum sentences based on drug type and quantity. There is no parole in the federal system. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland Courts official site
For the full text of the Controlled Substances Act, see 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. (U.S. Department of Justice — official site). For Maryland-specific criminal procedure, see Md. Code, Criminal Procedure Art. § 6-220 (Maryland General Assembly — official site).
In the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County, prosecutors routinely seek detention for federal drug importation defendants, arguing flight risk and danger to the community. We have observed that early intervention with a bail motion can significantly improve your pretrial release prospects.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all travel documents, receipts, and communications.
- Contact a controlled substance importation lawyer immediately.
- Attend all court hearings and comply with pretrial conditions.
- Work with your attorney to explore defense strategies, including challenging the search or chain of custody.
- Consider plea negotiations or trial preparation based on the evidence.
In Prince George’s County, controlled substance importation carries severe federal penalties under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq., including mandatory minimum sentences based on drug type and quantity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Importation of Schedule I/II drugs (e.g., heroin, cocaine) | Federal felony | 10 years to life (mandatory minimum) | Up to $10,000,000 | None (federal) | Supervised release; asset forfeiture; no parole |
| Importation of Schedule III/IV drugs (e.g., anabolic steroids) | Federal felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $500,000 | None (federal) | Supervised release; asset forfeiture; no parole |
| Importation of marijuana (over 50 kg) | Federal felony | 5-40 years (mandatory minimum) | Up to $5,000,000 | None (federal) | Supervised release; asset forfeiture; no parole |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Our firm, guided by the principle of Advocacy Without Borders, has extensive criminal defense experience in Prince George’s County, providing clients with strategic representation in federal drug importation cases.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Prince George’s County, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Results may vary.
Our location in Rockville is approximately 25 miles from the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County, with access via I-495 and I-95. If you are searching for a controlled substance importation lawyer near me Prince George’s County, we are here to help. Serving the communities of Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our location: 199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850 | (888) 437-7747 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases in Prince George’s County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Prince George’s County). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
After arrest in Prince George’s County: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanors are tried at District Court of MD for Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772). Felonies go to Prince George’s County Circuit Court. Bail set by District Court commissioner at initial appearance; Maryland permits pretrial release on personal recognizance, bail, or conditions of release; bail review hearing in District Court within 24 hours if detained; public defender eligibility based on income; court costs: approximately $22.50-$55. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault: up to 10 years; theft $100-$1,500: up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Prince George’s County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against importation of controlled substances charges?
Defense strategies for importation of controlled substances in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing importation of controlled substances charges in Virginia?
If facing importation of controlled substances charges in Virginia, contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
For more information about our services, visit our Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury hub page. You may also be interested in our Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County or Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County pages. For related practice areas, see Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County.
Last verified: April 2026. This page was last updated on 2026-04-30.