5 Ways You Can Be Charged with a Drug Crime in Illinois

Drug crimes are very serious and can result in massive fines, long prison sentences, and many other problems. Illinois takes these types of charges very seriously and will do everything they can to arrest and convict people on drug charges. Understanding the different ways that you could be charged with a drug crime in Illinois will help you make smarter decisions and avoid these potentially catastrophic situations.

• Possession of a Controlled Substance

One of the most common drug crimes is known as possession of a controlled substance. This is a fairly generic sounding crime that simply means that the police are claiming that you had some type of illegal drug in your possession. This could mean you were physically holding it, it was in your pocket, it was in your vehicle, or your home. In most cases this type of charge will result when you have a relatively small amount of a drug that would most likely be for personal use.

• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Even if you don’t have any drugs on you, the police can arrest you and have you charged with possession of drug paraphernalia. This means that you have some item or items that are primarily used for drugs. Depending on the situation, this could include bongs, needles, or any number of other things. If they find any drugs or drug residue in these items, the charges could get worse.

• Intent to Sell or Deliver

A charge of possession with intent to deliver is a much more serious charge than simple possession. In this situation, the prosecutors are essentially saying that you are a drug dealer since you have drugs in an amount that could be for selling. The specific amount varies by drug, but it is a surprisingly small amount in many cases. We understand that you may not have ever planned to sell the drugs, but you can still be charged with this crime. This is why it is so important to have a good defense team in place.

• Providing a Minor with Any Drug

Providing a minor with drugs is a very serious charge. It is no surprise that providing minors with illegal drugs is a serious offense, but this type of charge can apply to even some legal substances. For example, as of 2014, it is illegal for those under 18 to purchase or consume Kratom, which is an herbal supplement. If you sell this supplement to a minor, you can be charged with this drug crime.

• Sharing Prescription Medications

Prescription drugs have become one of the most popular drugs that are bought and sold on the street. We know that many people will buy, sell, and share prescriptions (especially pain medications) with friends or family who need them. The police and courts, however, don’t see it as simply helping each other out. Instead, they will charge you with serious crimes that can have a devastating impact on your life.

Providing You with Powerful Representation

Getting caught up in drugs is something that happens to millions of people each year, and often through no fault of their own. No matter your situation, we want to help provide you with the best legal defense we can to help ensure your rights are protected. Please contact us to discuss the specifics of your situation, and get your defense started right away.