The Ramifications of a Serious Drug Charge in Illinois

 Posted on November 29, 2019 in Criminal Defense

Here in the state of Illinois, severity of drug possession charges can depend on a number of criteria. Much like in many other states, the severity of potential criminal charges will mostly depend on the amount of narcotics and the type of substance. Recognizing the fact that Illinois is facing major issues involving drug use and drug-related fatalities, the state decided to establish the Illinois Controlled Substances Act designed to criminalize possession and intent to distribute certain controlled substances. Below we will discuss how a drug possession charge can impact you, and how you should react if you have been charged with drug possession.

Drug Possession in Illinois

A lot has changed in the past year, as it pertains to drug possession law in the state of Illinois. The Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act will go into effect in January, changing how law enforcement officials will regulate the recreational use of marijuana. With the passing of the new law, a person will now be able to legally possess up to 30 grams of marijuana. If a person is apprehended with anywhere from 30 to 100 grams, they will face misdemeanor charges, up to one year in prison, and fines as high as $2,500.

While the perception and legality about marijuana have changed statewide, the view on other drugs has not. Possession of substances such as heroin, cocaine, and morphine will result in felony charges. If convicted, the person charged could face an incredible $200,000 in fines. If a person is apprehended with upwards of 15 grams of these substances, they could spend anywhere from four to 15 years in prison. Recovering from a drug charge on your permanent record, and crippling fines can be a tall order for any person. Fortunately, a quality legal professional may be able to help you avoid a conviction altogether.

Contact a Naperville Drug Possession Defense Attorney

Facing drug charges is a terrifying thing, and it can sometimes be challenging to see a way out. Law enforcement officials would like you to think that a conviction is unavoidable after a drug arrest, but that is not the case. Attorney Patricia Magaña has been helping people charged with drug crimes avoid convictions or lower their criminal punishment, for years. With an in-depth knowledge of Illinois state law, Attorney Magaña is confident in her ability to develop a comprehensive and aggressive defense strategy. To schedule a complimentary initial consultation with a skilled DuPage County criminal defense attorney, call us today at 630-448-2001.

Source:

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