Drug distribution charges in Prince George’s County, Maryland, are prosecuted under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, carrying severe penalties including up to 20 years in prison for felony distribution. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Prince George’s County, with a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Drug Distribution Lawyer Prince Georges County, Maryland
Under Maryland law, drug distribution is defined as the manufacture, distribution, or possession with intent to distribute controlled dangerous substances (CDS). The primary statute governing these offenses is Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, which classifies penalties based on the drug schedule and quantity. For example, distribution of Schedule I or II narcotics (such as heroin, cocaine, or fentanyl) is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $1,000,000. Distribution of marijuana (Schedule I) carries up to 5 years for less than 50 pounds. The law also includes enhanced penalties for distribution near schools (within 1,000 feet) or to minors. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience. Advocacy Without Borders — our firm has handled extensive criminal defense experience in Prince George’s County.
Last verified: May 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly — official site
For the full text of Maryland’s drug distribution laws, see Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 5-601 et seq. (Maryland General Assembly — official site).
For court procedures and filing information, visit District Court of MD for Prince George’s County (Maryland Courts — official site).
In the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County, prosecutors routinely file drug distribution charges aggressively, especially in cases involving fentanyl or distribution near schools. We have observed that the State’s Attorney’s office often seeks maximum penalties in drug cases, but experienced defense counsel can negotiate Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) or dismissal through procedural challenges.
- Remain silent and request an attorney immediately after arrest.
- Do not consent to searches of your vehicle, home, or phone.
- Contact a drug distribution lawyer within 24 hours to preserve your rights.
- Your attorney will review the search warrant and arrest affidavit for procedural errors.
- Negotiate with the State’s Attorney for a PBJ or reduced charge.
- If no agreement, prepare for trial with a focus on suppressing illegally obtained evidence.
In Prince George’s County, drug distribution carries penalties ranging from 5 years to life depending on the drug type and quantity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distribution of Schedule I/II Narcotics (e.g., heroin, cocaine, fentanyl) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $1,000,000 | 6-month driver’s license suspension | Mandatory supervised release; asset forfeiture |
| Distribution of Marijuana (less than 50 lbs) | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $100,000 | 6-month driver’s license suspension | Probation; drug treatment program |
| Distribution within 1,000 feet of a school | Felony | Up to 20 years (mandatory minimum 5 years) | Up to $1,000,000 | 1-year driver’s license suspension | Enhanced penalties; no parole eligibility |
| Distribution to a minor | Felony | Up to 20 years (mandatory minimum 5 years) | Up to $1,000,000 | 1-year driver’s license suspension | Enhanced penalties; sex offender registration if applicable |
Results may vary.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Prince George’s County, including drug distribution cases. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Results may vary.
Our location in Rockville, MD is approximately 20 miles from the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772), with access via I-495, I-95, and Route 301. As a drug trafficking defense lawyer Prince George’s County, we serve 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 About Drug Distribution Charges in Prince George’s County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. 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.
How does a distribution of controlled substances lawyer Prince George’s County defend against drug distribution charges?
Defense strategies for drug distribution in Maryland may include challenging the legality of the search and seizure, examining the chain of custody of evidence, negotiating with the State’s Attorney for a PBJ or reduced charge, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced distribution of controlled substances lawyer Prince George’s County evaluates the specific facts under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article to build the strongest possible defense.
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Last verified: May 2026. This page was generated on 2026-05-01.