Being charged with possession with intent to distribute (PWID) in Maryland is a serious felony offense. These cases are far more severe than simple drug possession, and they come with steep penalties, long-term consequences, and aggressive prosecution.
At Hartman Attorneys at Law, we defend clients in Annapolis and throughout Anne Arundel County who have been accused of PWID involving marijuana, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, prescription pills, and other controlled substances. With former prosecutor Christian Hartman leading our defense team, we know how these cases are built—and how to dismantle them.
If you’re facing PWID charges, here’s what you can expect—and how we can help protect your freedom.
What Is Possession with Intent to Distribute in Maryland?
Under Maryland Criminal Law § 5-602, a person may not:
“Possess a controlled dangerous substance in sufficient quantity reasonably to indicate under all circumstances an intent to distribute.”
You don’t need to be caught in the act of selling drugs to be charged with PWID. In fact, many cases are based solely on the quantity of drugs found and the surrounding circumstances, such as:
- Packaging materials (baggies, scales, etc.)
- Large amounts of cash
- Frequent short visits by others to your home
- Cell phone texts or call logs suggesting transactions
Even if the drugs were for personal use, the police or prosecutors may still allege an intent to distribute based on circumstantial evidence.
How Prosecutors Handle PWID Cases
PWID cases are typically prosecuted by experienced Assistant State’s Attorneys and often involve investigations by narcotics units, confidential informants, or surveillance operations.
Key factors prosecutors use to pursue these charges include:
- Quantity of drugs seized
- Statements made during the arrest
- Surveillance evidence or undercover operations
- Digital evidence (texts, emails, call logs)
- Whether the drugs were individually packaged
- Presence of firearms or large sums of money
Maryland courts treat these cases harshly, especially when opioids, cocaine, or distribution near schools are involved. Convictions may result in mandatory minimum sentences and long-term imprisonment, even for first-time offenders.
Penalties for Possession with Intent to Distribute
The consequences for a PWID conviction in Maryland depend on the type and amount of controlled substance involved. Common penalties include:
For Schedule I or II Substances (e.g., heroin, cocaine, fentanyl):
- Up to 20 years in prison
- Fines up to $25,000
- Enhanced penalties for repeat offenders
- Longer sentences for distribution near schools or involving minors
For Marijuana (over 10 grams, but especially over 50 lbs):
- Still a felony if intent to distribute is alleged
- Penalties can include up to five years in prison and fines
- Large-scale marijuana cases (50+ lbs) can result in mandatory minimum sentences
Key Defense Strategies for PWID Charges
The good news is that intent is not always easy to prove. At Hartman Attorneys at Law, we use a combination of investigative insight and courtroom strategy to challenge the state’s case at every turn.
Common defense approaches include:
Challenging the Search and Seizure
We investigate whether the search was lawful. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, any drugs or evidence obtained may be suppressed in court.
Contesting Intent
We push back against claims of distribution by arguing the drugs were for personal use, not sale. This can significantly reduce the severity of the charge.
Undermining Informants or Surveillance
Many cases rely on questionable informants, unreliable surveillance, or misinterpreted communications. We dig into the credibility of each piece of evidence.
Suppressing Statements
If you made statements during your arrest without being read your Miranda rights, those statements may be inadmissible in court.
Negotiating Alternatives
In some instances, we may pursue reduced charges, diversion programs, or drug treatment court, especially for clients with no prior felony record.
Why Hartman Attorneys at Law?
When facing a felony charge like possession with intent to distribute, you need more than a general criminal defense lawyer—you need someone with insider knowledge of prosecution tactics and the skill to anticipate every move the state will make.
With a background as a former prosecutor, Attorney Christian Hartman brings both legal insight and courtroom firepower to your defense. Our clients receive:
- Direct attorney access—not passed off to paralegals
- 24/7 availability for urgent matters
- Aggressive, tailored strategies based on the facts of your case
We’ve defended high-stakes drug cases throughout Annapolis and Anne Arundel County—and we’re ready to do the same for you.
Accused of PWID in Maryland? Call Us Before You Talk to Police.
Don’t wait until you’re formally charged to get help. If law enforcement is investigating you, has executed a search warrant, or has placed you under arrest, now is the time to act.
Contact Hartman Attorneys at Law to schedule a free and confidential consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome—inside and outside the courtroom.