Trusted Legal Protection for Drug Offenses in Howard County
If you’ve been arrested for a drug-related crime in Ellicott City, the consequences can affect your freedom, employment, housing, and even federal aid eligibility. At Kunka Law, we provide strategic, aggressive defense for clients facing drug possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking charges in Howard County and beyond. Whether this is your first offense or you’ve been through the system before, we work to protect your rights, suppress unlawful evidence, and fight for dismissals, reductions, or treatment-based resolutions.
???? Common Drug Charges in Maryland
Under Maryland Criminal Law Title 5, the following charges are most frequently brought in Ellicott City and statewide:
- CDS Possession (controlled dangerous substance)
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Marijuana possession over the civil limit
- Prescription fraud
- Drug trafficking
- Drug manufacturing / cultivation
- Paraphernalia possession
❗ Even possession of a small amount of an illegal substance can carry jail time and a permanent criminal record.
???? Source: Maryland General Assembly – Criminal Law Title 5
???? Drug Crime Statistics – Howard County & Maryland
- In 2022, Maryland recorded over 11,000 drug-related arrests, with nearly 1 in 3 being first-time possession charges.
- Fentanyl and heroin remain the most common substances in felony-level charges.
- Howard County ranks in the top 10 Maryland jurisdictions for opioid-related incidents and drug overdose emergency calls.
???? Sources:
???? Local Relevance: Ellicott City & Howard County
All drug crimes in Ellicott City are prosecuted at either:
Howard County District Court
???? 3451 Courthouse Dr., Ellicott City, MD 21043
???? (410) 787‑0110
Howard County Circuit Court
???? 8360 Court Avenue, Ellicott City, MD 21043
???? (410) 313-2111
???? How the Legal Process Works at Kunka Law
We understand how overwhelming criminal charges can be. Here’s how we simplify it:
- Free Consultation
We evaluate the charges, police reports, and your side of the story. - Investigate & Challenge Evidence
We review whether search warrants, traffic stops, or arrests violated your Fourth Amendment rights. - Negotiate or Litigate
We pursue dismissal, reduced charges, or treatment-focused alternatives like Maryland’s Drug Court Program. - Trial or Resolution
If needed, we take your case to trial in Howard County court and present a strong, local jury-based defense.
Matt Kunka is an outstanding attorney. He provides exceptional customer service, listens attentively, and approaches every situation with a non-judgmental attitude. His professionalism, knowledge of the law, and prompt communication truly set him apart. Throughout my experience, he consistently kept me informed and updated, which made a significant difference. I would highly recommend his services to anyone in need of legal support—you’ll be in good hands.
Matt Kunka is an extremely competent, vigilant, persistent, knowledgeable, and kind attorney. Our son had some legal issues over COVID and it took over four years to resolve, resulting in the best outcome we could have hoped for. Matt was not only diligent and available this whole time, he went above and beyond to represent our son in the best possible way, providing support and hope along the way. We have sincerely thanked him many times for his outstanding service, and he is very humble, refusing extra compensation. We thank him from the bottom of our hearts for all he has done for our son and our family, and wish him all the very best in his future endeavors.
Matt is an incredibly hardworking and trustworthy lawyer. He’s made some of the most stressful and difficult times in my life worry free, explaining each step of the way and doing everything in his power to get you the results you want. Not only does he provide knowledgeable representation, but he’s cost effective and understanding of financial situations. I wouldn’t want anyone but Matt handling my court cases and my future.
I can’t thank Matt Kunka enough for his outstanding support and expertise in handling my cases. From the very beginning, he was professional, knowledgeable, and fully committed to securing the best possible outcome for me. Matt guided me through every step of the legal process, patiently answering my questions and providing clear, strategic advice. He made me feel like a top priority, ensuring that my voice was heard and my concerns addressed. His courtroom skills and keen attention to detail made a significant difference in my case, and I felt truly supported throughout the entire process. If you’re looking for a skilled, dedicated, and compassionate criminal lawyer, I highly recommend Matt Kunka.
Matt is an amazing attorney! He puts his all into showcasing his client’s strengths and personal accomplishments to a judge. He made my family and I feel comforted during a very dark time where we felt like there was no coming back from a very unfortunate auto incident. Matt was always personable and would handle things in a very swift and prompt manner. We are so grateful for everything he has done for us, he is the best!
???? Drug Crimes We Handle at Kunka Law
| Charge Type | Penalties if Convicted (1st Offense) |
| Simple Possession (CDS) | Up to 1 year in jail, $5,000 fine |
| Possession w/ Intent to Distribute | 5–20 years, depending on substance and prior record |
| Marijuana Possession >2.5 oz | Misdemeanor / Felony depending on quantity, up to 5 years |
| Trafficking / Manufacturing | Up to 25 years and $50,000+ fine |
| Paraphernalia Possession | Up to 1 year, fines, court-ordered rehab |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if I’m caught with drugs in someone else’s car or bag?
The state must prove you had actual or constructive possession. We challenge weak assumptions, proximity, or lack of intent.
Can I avoid jail if it’s my first drug offense?
Yes, through PBJ (probation before judgment), drug court, or diversion programs, especially in Howard County.
What happens if my Fourth Amendment rights were violated?
If police lacked probable cause or a valid warrant, we can move to suppress evidence and potentially have the case dismissed.
Is marijuana still illegal in Maryland?
Maryland has legalized recreational marijuana possession under 2.5 ounces for adults over 21, but larger quantities or intent to distribute are still criminally prosecuted.
???? Speak with a Drug Crime Lawyer in Ellicott City Today
Don’t face serious drug charges alone. At Kunka Law, we offer confidential, judgment-free representation to protect your future, reputation, and record.
???? 7420 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Suite 300 Glen Burnie, MD 21061
???? (410) 787‑0110
???? [email protected]
???? www.KunkaLaw.com