Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer in Howard County, Maryland
Federal importation of controlled substances is prosecuted under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq., carrying severe penalties including mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Howard County, Maryland. Call (888) 437-7747 for consultation by appointment only.
Federal importation of controlled substances is governed by 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq., which prohibits the importation of controlled substances into the United States. Penalties depend on the type and quantity of the substance, with mandatory minimum sentences ranging from 5 years to life imprisonment for large quantities. The Controlled Substances Act classifies drugs into schedules, and importation of Schedule I or II substances carries the harshest penalties. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | U.S. Congress — official site
For the full text of the federal controlled substances statutes, visit: 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. (U.S. Department of Justice — official site) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (official site).
In the District Court of MD for Howard County, prosecutors routinely pursue aggressive charges for controlled substance importation cases. We have observed that early intervention before indictment can lead to more favorable outcomes.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer Howard County immediately.
- Preserve all evidence and documentation related to your case.
- Attend all scheduled court hearings at the District Court of MD for Howard County.
- Follow your attorney’s guidance on plea negotiations or trial strategy.
In Howard County, controlled substance importation carries severe federal penalties including mandatory minimum sentences based on drug type and quantity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Importation of Schedule I/II substances (small quantity) | Federal felony | 5-40 years | Up to $5 million | N/A (federal) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture |
| Importation of Schedule I/II substances (large quantity) | Federal felony | 10 years to life | Up to $10 million | N/A (federal) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture |
| Importation of Schedule III/IV substances | Federal felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $500,000 | N/A (federal) | 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%.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Howard County, including documented results in controlled substance cases. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary.
Our location in Rockville is approximately 20 miles from the District Court of MD for Howard County, with access via I-95 and Route 29. Serving the communities of Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel (partial). 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 Howard 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 Howard County (3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043). 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 Howard 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 Howard County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Howard 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 Howard County, Maryland?
After arrest in Howard 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 Howard County (3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043). Felonies go to Howard 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 Howard 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 Howard 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 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?
If facing importation of controlled substances charges, 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 federal law require prompt action.
For more information, visit our Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury page. You may also be interested in our Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County and Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County pages.
Last verified: May 2026