Drug Crimes encompass a wide range of offenses, from possession to trafficking. If you were arrested for a drug-related criminal charge, it’s crucial to contact our experienced drug defense lawyers as soon as possible. Our aggressive team gets results in some of the most complex cases. We are wholly invested in the success of our clients and make ourselves available 24/7 to aid in tough situations. We assist in cases involving heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, methamphetamines, cannabis, synthetic cannabis, drug paraphernalia, and narcotic prescription drugs. Our team also helps with cases related to the delivery of controlled substances, including marijuana.

Under Illinois law, depending on the facts of your case, there are numerous types of drug crimes that you can be charged with. If these offenses cross state lines, you can also be charged with federal crimes. Charges may include possession, dealing/distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking. Possession is the drug charge that most people face. A possession charge may vary depending on the quantity and type of substance that authorities accuse you of possessing. Dealing or distribution involves accusations of selling drugs to another, while manufacturing includes creating illegal substances. Trafficking charges apply when drugs are moved across state lines.

For a possession conviction related to drug crimes, the prosecutor must prove three components beyond a reasonable doubt: the actual identity of the controlled substance as an illegal drug, that you knowingly possessed the drug, and that the substance was in your control or possession. Possession can mean either actual possession, where you had physical control over the substance, or constructive possession, where the drug is in a place you control, such as your car. The burden is on the state to prove these elements to secure a conviction.

Intent to distribute is a serious charge in drug crimes cases. People with large quantities of drugs in their possession may face intent to distribute charges. To prove an intent to distribute, the prosecutor must show that you possessed the illegal substance and had a clear intent to distribute it. Evidence such as the quantity of drugs, drug paraphernalia, and materials for distribution can be used to establish intent. This charge does not mean you actually intended to distribute, but rather that the court believes the evidence suggests such intent.

Illinois law sets out severe penalties for drug crimes. If convicted, an individual could face significant jail or prison time, serious fines and court fees, probation, drug education, and rehabilitation. Immigrants may face deportation. These penalties depend on the factors of the case, such as the type and amount of drug involved and the nature of the offense. More potent drugs result in more severe penalties. For example, possession and intent to distribute 150 grams of cocaine can carry a felony sentence of nine to 40 years in prison and fines exceeding $500,000. Possession of fewer than 10 grams of marijuana may result in civil offenses with fines up to $200.

There are several possible defenses to drug crimes. Although no attorney can guarantee the success of any defense, our experienced attorneys will fight for any available defenses, including entrapment, improper investigation, search and seizure violations, legal possession, and lack of knowledge. For example, if police violated your constitutional rights during their investigation, your attorney could argue for the exclusion of evidence obtained unlawfully. If you had a legal prescription for a controlled substance, this could also be a viable defense against a possession charge.

With over 40 years of combined legal experience, Kent Law, L.L.C., is committed to helping clients preserve their legal rights when facing serious criminal charges related to drug crimes. Throughout the years, our legal team has handled more than 10,000 criminal cases, providing us with a thorough and in-depth understanding of the law. We are former felony prosecutors focused on handling criminal cases, and we have earned statewide recognition for excellence as criminal trial lawyers. If you need defense against drug crime charges in DuPage, Kane, or Cook Counties, contact us today online or call (630) 474-8000.

Understanding the severity of drug crimes and the impact they can have on your life is crucial. Our firm is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive a fair trial. We bring years of experience and a deep understanding of the legal system to each case, providing personalized and aggressive defense strategies. Don’t let a drug crime charge ruin your future—reach out to us for a complimentary case evaluation and let us fight for your rights. Contact Kent Law, L.L.C., at (630) 474-8000 and take the first step towards protecting your future.