Controlled substance importation charges in Prince George’s County, Maryland, are prosecuted under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. and carry severe federal penalties including mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — brings extensive criminal defense experience to clients facing these serious allegations. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment only.
Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer in Prince George’s County, Maryland
Controlled substance importation is a federal offense under the Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. This statute prohibits the importation of controlled substances into the United States, including Schedule I, II, III, IV, and V drugs. Federal penalties for importation are significantly harsher than state charges, with mandatory minimum sentences based on drug type and quantity. For example, importation of 5 kilograms or more of cocaine carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life imprisonment. Importation of 1 kilogram or more of heroin carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life. There is no parole in the federal system.
Last verified: May 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland Judiciary
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
For the full text of the Controlled Substances Act, 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 Prince George’s County, prosecutors routinely seek detention for federal drug importation cases given the severity of the charges. We have observed that early intervention is critical — the initial appearance before a commissioner often determines whether you will be detained pending trial.
- Contact a controlled substance importation lawyer immediately upon arrest or notification of investigation.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all documents, communications, and evidence that may be relevant.
- Attend all court appearances at the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County, 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772.
- Work with your attorney to file pretrial motions challenging evidence or probable cause.
- Negotiate with prosecutors for a favorable disposition or prepare for trial.
In Prince George’s County, controlled substance importation carries severe federal 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 5+ kg cocaine | Federal felony | 10 years to life (mandatory minimum) | Up to $10 million | N/A (federal) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture |
| Importation of 1+ kg heroin | Federal felony | 10 years to life (mandatory minimum) | Up to $10 million | N/A (federal) | Supervised release, asset forfeiture |
| Importation of any Schedule I/II drug | Federal felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $1 million | 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%. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — has handled extensive criminal defense experience in Prince George’s County and throughout Maryland.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Prince George’s County. 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 Prince George’s County, with access via I-495 and I-95. We serve as a controlled substance importation lawyer near me Prince George’s County. Serving 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.
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 Prince George’s 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 Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772). After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
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, such as the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
After arrest in Prince George’s County: initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, arraignment, and 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.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties. Second-degree assault carries up to 10 years. Theft of $100-$1,500 carries up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Prince George’s County can negotiate PBJ or dismissal.
How does a Maryland lawyer defend against controlled substance importation charges?
Defense strategies for controlled substance importation charges 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 controlled substance importation charges in Maryland?
If facing controlled substance importation 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 federal law require prompt action.
For more information about criminal defense in Maryland, visit our Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland hub page. You may also find our pages for Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County and Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County useful. For related practice areas, see Federal Criminal Lawyer Prince George’s County.
Last verified: May 2026