Driving While Impaired by a Controlled Dangerous Substance Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland
Experienced Defense Against Driving While Impaired by CDS Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with driving while impaired by a controlled dangerous substance (often called DWI CDS) in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face a serious criminal offense under Maryland Transportation Article § 21-902(d). This charge applies when a person drives, operates, or is in actual physical control of a vehicle while impaired by any controlled dangerous substance (such as opioids, cocaine, marijuana, or other drugs listed in Criminal Law § 5-101), and the person is not lawfully entitled to use that substance.
At Shepard Law in Towson, principal attorney Stephen P. Shepard provides client-centered and compassionate criminal defense representation to individuals facing driving while impaired by a controlled dangerous substance charges throughout Baltimore County. With more than a decade of dedicated service defending clients in Towson, Essex, Catonsville, and surrounding communities, our law firm focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and protecting your future with thoughtful, personalized advocacy.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
A driving while impaired by a controlled dangerous substance charge in Baltimore County requires prompt, compassionate legal guidance. The earlier you reach out, the better we can protect your rights and explore all available options.
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a confidential, free 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 under Maryland Transportation Article § 21-902.
What Is Driving While Impaired by a Controlled Dangerous Substance?
Under Maryland law, a person is guilty of driving while impaired by a controlled dangerous substance if the State proves:
- That the defendant drove, operated, or was in actual physical control of a vehicle; and
- That, at the time, the defendant was impaired by a controlled dangerous substance.
Impairment exists when the substance has reduced the person’s normal coordination to some extent. Importantly, if you were lawfully entitled to use the controlled dangerous substance (for example, under a valid prescription or Maryland’s medical cannabis laws), that entitlement can serve as a complete defense — unless you were unaware that the substance would impair your ability to drive safely.
Penalties for Driving While Impaired by CDS in Baltimore County
A conviction under § 21-902(d) is a misdemeanor with serious consequences:
- First offense: Up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,200.
- Second offense: Up to 2 years in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,400.
Penalties increase significantly if a minor was in the vehicle. Convictions also trigger mandatory license suspension, ignition interlock requirements, points on your driving record, and higher insurance premiums. Repeat offenders face enhanced mandatory minimum sentences.
Strong Defenses to Driving While Impaired by CDS Charges
At Shepard Law, we carefully examine every aspect of the State’s evidence to build a thoughtful defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common and effective defenses include:
- Lawful entitlement to use the controlled dangerous substance (prescription or medical cannabis defense)
- Insufficient evidence of actual impairment
- Challenges to the reliability or admissibility of chemical tests or field sobriety tests
- Unlawful traffic stop or lack of probable cause
- Medical conditions or other factors affecting coordination or test results
Stephen P. Shepard approaches each case with care and attention, working closely with clients to pursue the most appropriate resolution—whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or trial.
Why Choose Shepard Law for Driving While Impaired by CDS 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 confidential, free 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.
