Chicago Drug Charge Lawyer

A number of challenges face individuals who have been charged with a drug crime. The ongoing federal war on drugs has fostered a system of tough laws, sentencing guidelines and mandatory minimum penalties, all of which make mounting a vigorous defense against drug charges critical. Even arrest for small amounts of illegal substances can result in heavy fines and jail time.

Being convicted of a drug charge, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, can have serious detrimental effects on many aspects of your life. In addition to significant fines and jail time, a drug charge conviction can affect your ability to get a job and your ability to qualify for federal student loans. Mandatory sentencing and vigorous prosecution are the norm in drug charge cases. It is critical to quickly mount a strong defense. Chicago drug charge attorney Jeffry Mandell will fight to help you to overcome the obstacles presented by a drug charge arrest.

Illinois Drug Charge Defense

As we assess your case, we will closely examine the circumstances of you arrest to determine if any misconduct occurred that could invalidate the charges against you. For example, were you the victim of an improper search? The Fourth Amendment guarantees you can only be subjected to a search if the officer has probable cause. An improperly conducted search can abrogate the drug evidence in your case.

Drug charges can also be fought if there is not clear evidence you had actual possession of the substance in question. If the drugs were not found on your person, a defense may be mounted that the substance belonged to a third party or that you did not know it was present.

In short, Mr. Mandell will work to have drug charges against you reduced or dismissed through the best avenues available given the details of your case. Mr. Mandell has the experience and tenacity to help you fight your drug charge arrest, avoid jail time and secure your future.

Illinois Drug Law: Marijuana and Controlled Substances

Illinois drug laws break criminal possession of drugs into two categories: possession of cannabis and possession of a controlled substance. Cannabis, or marijuana, is the only drug in its category and the only drug that can lead to a misdemeanor charge. All other drugs, including heroine, cocaine, methamphetamines, prescription drugs or any other illegal narcotic are considered controlled substances.

Most drug charges are felonies, some are misdemeanors, including:

• Possession of up to 2.5 grams marijuana is a Class C misdemeanor with penalties of up to 30 days jail and fines of up to $1,500.
• Possession of 2.5 to 10 grams marijuana is a Class B misdemeanor with penalties of up to 6 months jail and fines of up to $1,500.
• Possession of 10 to 30 grams marijuana is a Class A misdemeanor with penalties up to one year in jail and fines of up to $2,500.

Other drug charges, including possession of a controlled substance and possession with intent are felonies ranging from Class 4 to Class X.

No matter what the charge, everyone deserves a vigorous defense. Jeffry Mandell is prepared to assess your drug charge case and give you the help you need. Contact us today for a free consultation.