Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer in Somerset County, Maryland
Controlled substance importation charges in Somerset 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. has extensive criminal defense experience handling federal drug cases. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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 possession with intent to distribute controlled substances across U.S. borders. In Somerset County, Maryland, these cases 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. Penalties vary based on the type and quantity of the substance, with mandatory minimum sentences for certain drugs. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defend clients facing these serious charges.
Last verified: May 2026 | District Court of MD for Somerset County | Maryland Judiciary
For official statutory text, refer to: 21 U.S.C. § 841 (Cornell LII — official site) and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland (justice.gov).
In the District Court of MD for Somerset County, prosecutors routinely seek pretrial detention for federal drug importation cases, given the serious nature of the charges. We have observed that early intervention by an experienced federal defense attorney can significantly impact bail outcomes and case strategy.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all evidence and documents related to your case.
- Attend all court hearings at the District Court of MD for Somerset County or Somerset County Circuit Court.
- Work with your attorney to explore all defense strategies, including challenging evidence and negotiating with prosecutors.
In Somerset County, controlled substance importation carries federal penalties including mandatory minimum sentences, substantial fines, and supervised release.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Importation of Schedule I/II drugs (e.g., heroin, cocaine) | Felony | 10 years to life (mandatory minimum) | Up to $10,000,000 | N/A (federal) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture, loss of federal benefits |
| Importation of Schedule III/IV drugs | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $500,000 | N/A (federal) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture |
| Importation of marijuana (over 50 kg) | Felony | 5 to 40 years (mandatory minimum) | Up to $5,000,000 | N/A (federal) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 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%. Advocacy Without Borders is our commitment to providing aggressive, client-focused representation in federal criminal cases.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Somerset County, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. While specific locality case counts are not available for Somerset County, the firm has achieved favorable outcomes in numerous federal drug cases, including dismissals, reductions, and probationary dispositions. Results may vary.
Our location in Rockville, MD is approximately 120 miles from the District Court of MD for Somerset County, with access via Route 13 and Route 413. If you are searching for a controlled substance importation lawyer near me Somerset County, we serve clients throughout the region. Serving the communities of Princess Anne, Crisfield, Westover, Marion Station, and Deal Island. 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
(888) 437-7747 | By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Somerset 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 Somerset County (30512 Prince William Street, Princess Anne, MD 21853). 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 Somerset 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 Somerset County are expunged through the court where the case was heard (District Court of MD for Somerset 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 Somerset County, Maryland?
After arrest in Somerset 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 Somerset County (30512 Prince William Street, Princess Anne, MD 21853). Felonies go to Somerset 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 Somerset 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 Somerset 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, visit our Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury hub page. You may also find these resources useful: Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County, Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County, and Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County.
Last updated: 2026-05-01
Explore our practice areas: Criminal Defense Lawyer Salisbury (hub), Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County, Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County, and Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County.