What Are My Options for Fighting Drug Charges in Illinois?

 Posted on March 29, 2019 in Criminal Defense

A conviction on drug charges can have a lasting impact on your life, even for simple possession. A criminal record can limit your occupational opportunities, affect your eligibility for financial loans, and result in changes to child custody. If you face a drug charge in Illinois, it is imperative to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights and your future.

Illinois Drug Charges

Like every state, the penalties for drug crimes depend on the substance and the amount seized by police.  Charges will also differ depending on whether you were only in possession of drugs or if you had the intent to distribute. Charges will also increase for repeat offenders and if other factors are involved, including the sale of drugs on school property.

Medical marijuana is legal in Illinois, but possession and distribution of recreational cannabis remains illegal. While possession of 10 grams or less is a civil violation with a fine of no more than $200, penalties increase significantly for larger amounts. Possession of anything more than 30 grams is a felony, and a conviction will carry a mandatory minimum sentence of prison time and fines up to $25,000.

Any offense involving the possession or sale of drugs like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, LSD, or MDMA is charged as a felony in Illinois. Anything more than 15 grams constitutes a Class 1 felony, which can be punished by up to 15 years in prison. 

How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help? 

An adept criminal defense lawyer will first investigate all facts related to your case. Your lawyer will determine if your rights were violated, such as by an unlawful traffic stop or illegal search and seizure by law enforcement. If there is evidence of police misconduct and a violation of your rights, your attorney can ask for the charges to be dismissed. 

Even if police acted appropriately, your attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to reach the best possible result. This may include probation if you are a first-time drug offender, or drug court if you have a substance abuse problem and face a non-violent drug offense. Even in situations in which jail time is a certainty, including if you are a repeat offender, your lawyer can fight for reduced charges. 

Contact a Will County Drug Crimes Lawyer

When facing criminal charges, choosing the right attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make. At McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC, we recognize the potential damage a drug charge can have to your life. Our skilled Joliet criminal defense attorneys know what it takes to achieve a favorable outcome in your case, regardless of the charges. To learn how we can help you determine your best options for defense, contact us today at 815-727-0100 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://norml.org/laws/item/illinois-penalties

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=1941&ChapterID=53