Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer in Kent County, Maryland
Controlled substance importation in Kent County, Maryland, is a serious federal offense prosecuted under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq., carrying mandatory minimum sentences and no federal parole. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — has extensive criminal defense experience, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%.
Controlled substance importation is governed by the federal Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. This statute makes it unlawful to knowingly or intentionally import into the United States any controlled substance listed under federal law. Penalties vary based on the type and quantity of the substance, with mandatory minimum sentences for certain drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. In Kent County, these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, with initial appearances and proceedings at the District Court of MD for Kent County (103 N. Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620) for preliminary matters, and felony trials at the Kent County Circuit Court. 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 Kent County | Maryland Judiciary
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-specific criminal procedures, see Md. Code, Criminal Procedure Art. § 6-220 (Maryland General Assembly — official site).
In the District Court of MD for Kent County, prosecutors routinely seek high bail for importation charges due to the perceived flight risk. We have observed that early engagement with the court can lead to more favorable bail conditions.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.
- Contact a controlled substance importation lawyer near me Kent County immediately.
- Preserve all documents and evidence related to your case.
- Attend all court hearings at the District Court of MD for Kent County.
- Work with your attorney to explore PBJ or expungement options.
In Kent County, controlled substance importation carries federal penalties including mandatory minimum sentences, substantial fines, and supervised release, with no federal parole.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Importation of Schedule I/II drugs (e.g., heroin, cocaine) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years to life | Up to $10,000,000 | N/A (federal offense) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture, no parole |
| Importation of Schedule III/IV drugs | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $500,000 | N/A (federal offense) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture |
| Importation of marijuana (large quantities) | Federal Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal offense) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ 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 team includes Kristen M. Fisher, Former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, who dedicates 75% of her practice to litigation. We have extensive experience handling controlled substance importation cases in Kent County, including at the District Court of MD for Kent County and the Kent County Circuit Court.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, including numerous favorable outcomes in criminal defense cases. While specific Kent County controlled substance importation case results are not listed, our firm-wide track record demonstrates a favorable-outcome rate above 93%.
Results may vary.
Our location in Rockville, MD is approximately 70 miles from the District Court of MD for Kent County, with access via Route 213, Route 301, and Route 20. If you are searching for a controlled substance importation lawyer near me Kent County, we serve clients throughout the area. Serving the communities of Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, and Betterton. 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 Kent 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 Kent County (103 N. Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620). 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 Kent 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 Kent County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Kent 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 Kent County, Maryland?
After arrest in Kent 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 Kent County (103 N. Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620). Felonies go to Kent 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 Kent 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 Kent 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.
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 See Federal Criminal general statutes — verify specific section for Importation Of Controlled Substances 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, visit our Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury hub page. You may also find these pages useful: Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County, Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County, and Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County.
Last verified: April 2026
By appointment only.