Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer in Somerset County, Maryland
Federal importation of controlled substances is prosecuted under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq., carrying severe mandatory minimum sentences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Somerset County, Maryland. If you face federal drug importation charges, you need a Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer Somerset County who understands federal court procedures. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Federal importation of controlled substances is governed by the Controlled Substances Act, specifically 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. This statute makes it unlawful to knowingly or intentionally import, or attempt to import, a controlled substance into the United States. Penalties vary based on the type and quantity of the substance, with mandatory minimum sentences ranging from 5 years to life imprisonment for large quantities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland prosecutes these cases in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. 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 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | USAO District of Maryland
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 federal court procedures, visit U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland (mdd.uscourts.gov — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, federal prosecutors routinely seek indictments through grand juries before defendants are even aware of the investigation. We have observed that early intervention by a Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer Somerset County can significantly impact the outcome.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a Controlled Substance Importation Lawyer Somerset County immediately.
- Preserve all documents and communications that may be relevant.
- Attend all court hearings as directed by your attorney.
- Work with your attorney to evaluate potential defense strategies.
- Consider the implications of a plea agreement versus trial.
In Somerset County, Maryland, federal controlled substance importation carries severe penalties under 21 U.S.C. § 841, including mandatory minimum sentences based on drug type and quantity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Importation of Schedule I/II drugs (small quantity) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $1,000,000 | Federal driver’s license suspension possible | Supervised release, asset forfeiture |
| Importation of Schedule I/II drugs (large quantity) | Felony | 10 years to life (mandatory minimum) | Up to $10,000,000 | Federal driver’s license suspension possible | Supervised release, asset forfeiture, no parole |
| Importation of Schedule III/IV drugs | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $500,000 | Federal driver’s license suspension possible | 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 firm has extensive criminal defense experience handling federal drug charges, including importation of controlled substances. We understand the details of federal court procedures and the strategies needed to defend against these serious allegations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Somerset County and firm-wide across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with 4,739+ documented results. While specific Somerset County case results are not available, our firm-wide record demonstrates a commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our location in Rockville, MD is approximately 120 miles from the District Court of MD for Somerset County (30512 Prince William Street, Princess Anne, MD 21853), with access via Route 13 and Route 413. If you are searching for a controlled substance importation lawyer near me Somerset County, our firm provides representation 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
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Controlled Substance Importation Charges in Somerset County
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.
How does a Maryland lawyer defend against importation of controlled substances charges?
Defense strategies for importation of controlled substances 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 importation of controlled substances charges in Maryland?
If facing importation of controlled substances 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 our firm’s criminal defense services, visit our Criminal Defense Lawyer Maryland hub page. You may also be interested in our Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County or Criminal Defense Lawyer Calvert County pages. For related practice areas, see our Criminal Defense Lawyer Montgomery County page.
Last updated: 2026-05-01