UNDERSTANDING DRUG CRIMES IN CHICAGO
Drug crimes refer to a broad category of acts involving illegal drugs. They include the use, possession, manufacturing, and distribution of unlawful controlled substances such as cocaine, amphetamines, and LSD.
Controlled substances are classified according to their potential for abuse balanced with their potential medical use. Class 1 drugs, such as heroin and ecstasy, attract the most severe penalties.
Drug crimes range from minor offenses, such as possession for personal use, to very serious offenses, for example, trafficking. They are covered by both federal and state law and include both misdemeanors and felonies. A knowledgeable attorney from DRD Law, LLC can provide counsel to help you understand what you are facing. Contact us either by calling 833-373-9467 or filing out an online form today.
POSSESSION
It is illegal to possess a controlled substance. You can also be charged for the possession of drug paraphernalia, such as syringes or bongs, or prescription medication without authorization.
MANUFACTURING
You can be charged with various offenses for participating in any step of the production of an illegal drug. This includes the creation of a synthetic drug, such as amphetamines, or the extraction of a naturally occurring drug, for example, like cannabis.
TRAFFICKING
It is against the law to sell, transport, or import a controlled substance. Trafficking is one of the most serious drug crimes, attracting harsh penalties. Federal law applies and a trafficking conviction can result in life imprisonment.
PENALTIES FOR A DRUG CRIME CONVICTION IN COOK COUNTY
A range of penalties is available to the court when sentencing drug offenders, including:
- Fines
- Probation or community supervision
- Court-ordered drug counseling sessions or rehabilitation
- Community service
- Jail, including life imprisonment
When sentencing for a drug crime, the court usually takes into account:
- the type and amount of drugs involved
- whether possession was for personal use or distribution
- the offender’s previous convictions, especially for drug offenses
There are also mandatory minimum sentences attached to some drug offenses, or for repeat offenders.
WHY FIGHT A DRUG CRIME ALLEGATION IN CHICAGO
A conviction for a drug crime can have serious, long-lasting consequences.
Aside from any penalty you receive, a conviction for a drug offense usually stays on your criminal history for the rest of your life. This can negatively impact your ability to find work, maintain personal relationships, hold a drivers’ license, secure a loan, enlist in the military, or own a gun.
For these reasons, you should immediately speak to a drug crime defense lawyer at DRD Law, LLC if you’ve been charged with a drug crime.
HOW A DRUG CRIME DEFENSE LAWYER IN CHICAGO CAN HELP
Even minor drug offenses can attract harsh penalties and affect your future. The law around drug offenses is complex and can involve both state and federal authorities. So, it’s important to find a defense lawyer who is well-versed in these types of offenses.
They can explain the process, your rights, and any defenses available to you to fight the charges. They can also advocate on your behalf when negotiating with the prosecution or representing you in court. This is why you should contact DRD Law, LLC if you or someone you love is facing drug charges.
With the help of a lawyer experienced in defending drug crimes, you can minimize the potential effects of a drug conviction on your future or even avoid a conviction in the first place. Get started on your defense by contacting DRD Law, LLC either by calling 833-373-9467 or filling out an online form today to schedule a free consultation.