Were you accused of a drug crime in Illinois? Drug offenses can carry substantial penalties upon conviction and should be handled by an experienced attorney. Failing to secure legal representation for a drug crime could result in you receiving the maximum sentence allowed by law.
At the JP Law Office, we provide experienced representation for individuals who have been accused of drug crimes in Bloomington, Illinois. Our knowledgeable legal team will help you understand the charges and what defenses may arise in your case. We will fight hard to get you a favorable outcome in your case, including a reduction or dismissal of the charges.
If you are being investigated for or have been charged with a drug crime in Illinois, contact our office to schedule a free consultation.
Types of Drug Cases We Handle
The lawyers at the JP Law Office handle a wide variety of drug charges, including both misdemeanor and felony offenses. It is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after an arrest or investigation. Early intervention can prove critical in these cases.
At the JP Law Office, our drug crimes lawyers handle:
- Drug trafficking and distribution
- Drug possession
- Manufacture
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession with intent to deliver
Prosecutors tend to have extraordinarily high conviction rates related to drug offenses. It is imperative to discuss your case with a leading attorney that can help you fight the charges and secure the most favorable disposition in your case.
First-Time Drug Offenses in Illinois
If this is your first time facing drug charges in Illinois, it’s important to understand how the law works and the potential penalties. Illinois drug laws take drug-related offenses very seriously, even for a first offense. However, being a first-time offender may provide opportunities to seek alternative sentencing options, such as drug treatment programs or probation instead of jail time.
Penalties often depend on the type and quantity of drugs involved. Substances like cocaine, LSD, methamphetamine, heroin, and ketamine are prohibited. Possession of a controlled substance in Illinois may also be classified as a misdemeanor or felony based on the drug and amount.
An experienced attorney can help you explore options to reduce the severity of your charges, possibly avoiding a criminal record.
Felony Drug Charges in Illinois
Felony drug charges in Illinois carry some of the harshest penalties under state law. These offenses typically involve large quantities of drugs, trafficking charges, or possession with intent to distribute. Convictions may result in:
- Lengthy prison sentences
- Substantial fines
- Probation or mandatory drug treatment
- Permanent criminal records
If you’re facing felony drug charges, you need a dedicated legal team with experience navigating Illinois drug laws. The JP Law Office will relentlessly pursue the best possible defense for your case.
Illinois Drug Laws
Illinois has comprehensive drug laws that regulate the possession, sale, and manufacturing of controlled substances. Knowing the law can help you understand the severity of the charges and how they might be addressed.
What Drugs Are Legal in Illinois?
- Cannabis: Legal for recreational use for adults over 21, within certain limits.
- Prescription Medications: Legal when prescribed and used as directed.
What Drugs Are Illegal in Illinois?
Drugs such as cocaine, LSD, ketamine, heroin, and methamphetamine are illegal for personal use or distribution. Possession or sale of these substances often results in criminal charges.
Violations like drug trafficking or manufacturing can lead to even more severe consequences, including charges on a federal level.
How to Beat a Possession Charge in Illinois
Facing charges for possession of a controlled substance in Illinois doesn’t mean you have no options. There are several defenses an experienced attorney may utilize to fight your case. Common defenses include:
- Unlawful Search and Seizure: If the evidence was obtained illegally, it may be inadmissible in court.
- Lack of Knowledge: Proving you were unaware the substance was in your control.
- Chain of Custody Issues: Challenging how evidence was handled to argue it may be tainted or mishandled.
- Valid Prescription: Showing the drug was prescribed to you for legitimate medical purposes.
Every case is unique, and the best course of action depends on the facts. The JP Law Office will review every detail to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Penalties for Drug Crimes in Illinois
Penalties for a drug crime in Bloomington depend on the type of drug that was possessed, the amount of that drug, and whether the drugs were actually transferred to another person. A person will also face additional penalties if they have a previous conviction on their record.
Penalties for drug crimes in Illinois:
- State prison sentence
- Fines
- Drug treatment programs
- Community service
A drug crimes lawyer can help you understand the potential penalties you will face based on the circumstances of your case.
Steps to Take If Charged with Drug Possession
If you are arrested or charged with a drug crime in Bloomington, you need to exercise your right to remain silent. Discussing your case with anyone could be detrimental. Even someone saying they are trying to help may do more harm than good if they are discussing your case with others.
Even if you are being interrogated by police, you have the right to speak with your attorney. You should never feel forced to make a statement or to prove your innocence. An attorney can make sure that all of your rights are protected.
Why You Need an Experienced Drug Crimes Lawyer
Contrary to popular belief, there are ways to fight drug charges if you are accused of the offense. However, it can be challenging to know which defenses are applicable in your case without the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Defenses to a drug crime:
- Unreasonable search and seizure
- Chain of custody issues
- Lack of knowledge
- False identification
- Valid prescription
Fighting drug charges can be hard. Many people do not understand how even an accusation of a drug offense can turn a person’s life upside down. Prior to accepting a plea deal, or even appearing in court, it is in your best interest to speak with a drug crimes lawyer about all of your legal options.
Hiring an Experienced Drug Crimes Lawyer
An arrest for a drug offense can feel overwhelming or even hopeless. You may assume that an arrest will directly lead to a conviction. In many cases, however, the charges can be fought. The best way to fight criminal drug charges is with the help of an experienced attorney.
A drug crimes lawyer can review your case and determine whether you have any valid legal defenses. They can help determine the best course of action, including whether you should take your case to trial. The drug crimes lawyer you retain should be well-versed in handling complex criminal cases, given the severe penalties associated with a drug conviction.
Attorney Jennifer Patton is a former prosecutor and public defender who has handled countless criminal cases. She has over 30 years of experience and proven case results. If you are arrested for a misdemeanor or felony drug charge, you need Jennifer Patton and the JP Law Office on your side.
Arrested for a Drug Crime in Illinois? Contact Our Office.
Were you arrested for a drug crime in Bloomington, Illinois? Contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Our legal team will help you understand your rights and determine the best path forward based on the unique circumstances of your case.
Being arrested on drug charges can be a traumatic experience, but it does not have to ruin your life or your reputation. Our law office can help to protect your interests and will do everything in our power to get you a favorable outcome in your case. Contact our office today to discuss your case directly with an attorney.
Illinois Drug Crime FAQs
Is LSD illegal in Illinois?
Yes, LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in Illinois. Penalties for its possession, sale, or manufacturing are severe and often charged as felonies.
Is ketamine legal in Illinois?
Ketamine is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance but may be legally prescribed for certain medical uses. Unauthorized possession or sale is illegal.
Is Cocaine Illegal in Illinois?
Cocaine is considered a Schedule II controlled substance and is illegal to possess or sell without a valid medical purpose. Convictions can result in substantial fines and prison time.
How to Beat a Possession Charge in Illinois?
To successfully fight a possession charge, you’ll need strong legal representation that focuses on key defenses, like unlawful searches or proving lack of intent. Options may also include plea agreements or alternative sentencing.
