Keeping a Common Nuisance Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland
Experienced Defense Against Keeping a Common Nuisance Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with keeping a common nuisance in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face a serious drug-related offense under Maryland Criminal Law § 5-605. This charge applies when a house, building, vehicle, or other place is allegedly used repeatedly or continuously for the unlawful administration, distribution, dispensing, storage, or concealment of controlled dangerous substances or drug paraphernalia. Prosecutors in Baltimore County treat these cases seriously, and a conviction can result in significant penalties and long-term collateral consequences.
At Shepard Law in Towson, principal attorney Stephen P. Shepard provides client-centered and compassionate criminal defense representation to individuals facing keeping a common nuisance charges throughout Baltimore County. With more than a decade of dedicated service defending clients in Towson, Essex, Catonsville, and surrounding communities, our firm focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and protecting your future with thoughtful, personalized advocacy.
What Is Keeping a Common Nuisance Under Maryland Law?
A common nuisance is a house, building, vehicle, or other place that is used repeatedly or continuously for the purpose of unlawfully administering, distributing, dispensing, storing, or concealing a controlled dangerous substance or drug paraphernalia.
To convict the defendant of keeping a common nuisance, the State must prove that the defendant kept either:
- A place that another person or persons repeatedly or continuously used to administer, distribute, dispense, store, or conceal a controlled dangerous substance or drug paraphernalia; or
- A place in which a controlled dangerous substance or drug paraphernalia, intended for use by others, was repeatedly or continuously stored or concealed.
The offense requires a continuing or recurring nature. A single incident is generally insufficient. Legal ownership of the property is not required—only a sufficient connection between the defendant and the location. The place does not need to be open to the public.
Penalties for Keeping a Common Nuisance in Baltimore County
A conviction for keeping a common nuisance under § 5-605 is a misdemeanor. Penalties can include imprisonment for up to five years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. A conviction also carries collateral consequences, including impacts on employment, housing, professional licenses, and future criminal proceedings.
Strong Defenses to Keeping a Common Nuisance Charges
At Shepard Law, we carefully examine every aspect of the State’s case to build a thoughtful defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common and effective defenses include:
- Lack of evidence of a continuing or recurring offense (single incident insufficient)
- Insufficient connection between the defendant and the property
- No knowledge or permission for others to use the location for unlawful purposes
- The substances or paraphernalia were for personal use only
- Constitutional violations involving unlawful search and seizure
- Insufficient evidence or credibility issues with witnesses
Stephen P. Shepard approaches each case with care and attention, working closely with clients to develop the most appropriate path forward—whether through negotiation for reduced charges, dismissal, or trial.
Why Choose Shepard Law for Keeping a Common Nuisance Defense in Baltimore County
Stephen P. Shepard is a respected Baltimore County criminal defense attorney recognized by Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star,” Avvo with a 10.0 “Superb” rating, Martindale-Hubbell as a “Client Champion Platinum,” and The National Trial Lawyers as a “Top 40 Under 40.” He is an active member of the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association and regularly appears in Baltimore County courts.
Our Towson office, located at 303 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Towson, MD 21204, serves clients across Baltimore County. At Shepard Law, you receive client-centered and compassionate representation focused on your individual needs and long-term well-being.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve.