Understanding the differences between drug distribution and drug conspiracy charges in Maryland is crucial for anyone facing such allegations. While both charges involve passing drugs, they have distinct legal definitions and consequences.
When you know what is at stake amid these charges, you have better odds of making the best decisions for case.
Drug distribution
Drug distribution involves selling, delivering or providing controlled substances to others. It can apply to anyone caught in the act of distributing drugs or possessing a large quantity of drugs with the intent to distribute.
Penalties for drug distribution in Maryland vary based on the type and amount of the involved substance. For example, distributing large quantities of narcotics can result in lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.
Drug conspiracy
By contrast, drug conspiracy involves an agreement between two or more people to commit a drug-related crime. Unlike drug distribution, a conspiracy charge does not require the actual distribution of drugs – the agreement and intent to distribute are enough to warrant prosecution.
Conspiracy charges can be challenging to defend against because they often rely on circumstantial evidence, like phone records, financial transactions or witness testimony. Unfortunately, the penalties for drug conspiracy can be as severe as those for drug distribution.
Legal defenses
Defendants facing either charge have several defense strategies to consider. For distribution, possible defenses include lack of knowledge, lack of intent to distribute and illegal search and seizure. For conspiracy, defenses may include lack of agreement, entrapment and insufficient evidence. An experienced defense representative can evaluate your case and help you build a strategy to mitigate the charges and the potential penalties.