If you are charged with importation of controlled substances in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, federal law under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. carries severe mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Anne Arundel County. As a Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer Anne Arundel County, we provide aggressive representation.
Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer Anne Arundel County, Maryland
Federal importation of controlled substances is prosecuted under the Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. This statute makes it unlawful to knowingly or intentionally import, or attempt to import, a controlled substance into the United States. Federal drug penalties are significantly harsher than state charges, with mandatory minimum sentences based on drug type and quantity. For example, importing 5 kilograms or more of cocaine carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in federal prison. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to every case.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland Judiciary — official site
For the full text of the federal controlled substances statute, see 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. (U.S. Department of Justice — official site). For Maryland state drug laws, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (Maryland General Assembly — official site).
In the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County, prosecutors routinely seek pretrial detention for federal drug importation cases. We have observed that early engagement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office before indictment can materially affect bail conditions and potential plea negotiations.
- Remain silent and request an attorney immediately upon arrest.
- Do not consent to any searches of your person, vehicle, or property.
- Preserve all evidence, including receipts, travel documents, and communications.
- Contact a federal criminal defense attorney before making any statements.
- Attend all court hearings with your attorney present.
- Follow your attorney’s advice regarding plea negotiations or trial strategy.
In Anne Arundel County, federal importation of controlled substances carries severe 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 Controlled Substances (Schedule I/II) | Federal Felony | 10 years to life (mandatory minimum) | Up to $10,000,000 | Federal driver’s license suspension possible | Supervised release, asset forfeiture, no parole |
| Importation of Controlled Substances (Schedule III/IV) | Federal Felony | 5 to 40 years | Up to $5,000,000 | Federal driver’s license suspension possible | Supervised release, asset forfeiture, no parole |
| Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances | Federal Felony | Same as underlying offense | Same as underlying offense | Federal driver’s license suspension possible | 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%. The firm has extensive criminal defense experience in Anne Arundel County, handling complex federal drug cases with a focus on achieving favorable outcomes for clients.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Anne Arundel County. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific locality counts for Anne Arundel County are not available, the firm’s track record demonstrates a commitment to achieving favorable results for clients facing serious federal charges.
Results may vary.
Our location in Rockville, MD is approximately 35 miles from the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County, with access via I-97 and I-695. As a controlled substance importation lawyer near me Anne Arundel County, we serve clients throughout the region. Serving the communities of Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Anne Arundel 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 Anne Arundel County (251 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis, MD 21401). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged (3-year waiting period).
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
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 Anne Arundel County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County).
What happens after a criminal arrest in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
After arrest in Anne Arundel 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 Anne Arundel County (251 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis, MD 21401). Felonies go to Anne Arundel County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
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 Anne Arundel County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
How does a Maryland lawyer defend against importation of controlled substances charges?
Defense strategies for importation of controlled substances in Maryland 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 Maryland?
If facing importation of controlled substances charges in Maryland, 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 Maryland law require prompt action.
For more information about criminal defense in Maryland, visit our Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury page. You may also find these related pages useful: Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County, Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County, and Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County.
Last updated: 2026-04-30