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Drug Crimes

Just Say No to Charges with a Skilled Chicago Drug Crime Lawyer

From seemingly minor offenses such as marijuana possession to incredibly complex drug trafficking schemes, all drug crimes are considered grave offenses in the State of Illinois.

Federal and state lawmakers can be merciless when it comes to prosecuting drug crimes, often quick to convict and harsh in their sentencing. Nearly one-fifth of Illinois state prisoners, and more than half of all federal prisoners, are behind bars because of drug crimes. Many of these individuals were nonviolent offenders convicted of possession of small amounts of controlled substances such as marijuana, opioids, and prescription painkillers.

But if you are facing drug crime charges in Illinois, you are facing more than just a lengthy prison or jail sentence. The consequences for drug crimes are complex and life-altering, and may include heavy fines, probation, enrollment in counseling, and completion of a substance abuse treatment program. You could be required to submit to routine chemical tests and sent back to jail for testing positive. Arguably the most destructive penalty of all is the permanent stain on your criminal record that may follow a drug conviction. Your drug conviction will appear on background tests and screenings for the rest of your life, making it difficult to obtain employment, secure loans, or gain acceptance to a college or university.

Any type of drug crime charge carries devastating consequences to your freedom, finances, and future. That is why it is essential to obtain quality legal representation from a Chicago drug crime defense attorney who has helped people just like you to get the best possible outcome if you have been arrested, charged, or believe you are being investigated for a drug crime.

Howard J. Wise and the team of top legal professionals at the Law Offices of Howard J. Wise & Associates have represented individuals charged with a comprehensive range of drug crimes, from possession to trafficking. Our team is made up of former prosecutors with a unique insight into how the opposition thinks and operates. Mr. Wise and his fellow attorneys will use this knowledge to help you determine the best strategy for your individual case before building the most powerful defense possible. With Mr. Wise's help, you may be able to beat your drug charges by having them reduced or dropped entirely.

A Tough Chicago Drug Crimes Attorney Can Battle Tough Charges

In Illinois, drug crimes may involve any type of controlled substance, including illicit drugs like heroinmarijuanacocaineecstasy, and methamphetamines , as well as prescription medications. Drug cases are prosecuted in both state and federal courts.

Some of the most common examples of drug crime charges in Chicago include:

Drug manufacturingDrug manufacturing involves the production, preparation, propagation, compounding, conversion, or processing of a controlled substance. You may also be charged with drug manufacturing for simply possessing the materials to make certain drugs, including certain precursor chemicals. Drug manufacturing is a class 4 felony, and punishable by a sentence of one to three years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.

Drug possessionUnder state law, it is illegal to possess any amount of illicit drug, as well as any prescription medication for which you do not have a valid prescription. The penalties for drug possession typically depend on the amount and type of substance involved, but may include prison time, hefty fines, and a lifelong criminal record.

Drug possession with intent to deliverThis type of offense is typically considered more serious than simple drug possession. You can be charged with possession with intent to deliver if you are believed to have drugs that you intend to sell or give to someone else. This type of charge is often made against individuals holding over a small amount of drugs, since prosecutors will often argue that the amount is too large for personal use. Possession with intent to deliver is considered a felony and punishable by years of prison time and hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines.

Drug sales and delivery. Alternatively, if drug distribution has already taken place, you can be charged with sale or delivery of a controlled substance. Drug sale and delivery are also considered felonies, though the severity of penalties may depend on the type of drug involved, where the transaction occurred, and whether someone was injured. Typical penalties include years in prison and staggering fines.

Drug TraffickingMost courts consider drug trafficking to be the most serious of all drug crimes. Drug trafficking is a felony crime involving the manufacturing, distribution, and delivery of illicit substances. Penalties vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the crime and the type and amount of substance in question, but may include millions of dollars in fines and mandatory incarceration.

Drug transportationYou can be charged with drug transportation for knowingly moving illegal substances from one place to another, whether you travel a short distance or move across the country. Drug transportation is a felony, and punishable by lengthy prison sentences and huge fines, depending on the type and amount of substance involved.

Prescription fraudPrescription fraud is an umbrella term that covers a variety of illegal behaviors, including altering a prescription, using a forged prescription, stealing blank prescription slips, or seeing multiple doctors for the same prescription. Prescription fraud is often charged as a felony, and punishable with up to $100,000 in fines and up to three years in prison.

Stand Up to Chicago Drug Charges—Contact Experienced Illinois Criminal Lawyer Howard J. Wise

Any type of drug crime charge in Chicago demands the most aggressive defense possible if you want to avoid jail or prison time, heavy fines, and life-altering repercussions. If you have been charged with a drug crime, we urge you to get in touch with a drug crimes attorney at the Law Office of Howard J. Wise & Associates immediately.

The sooner you contact our law office, the sooner Howard Wise and his legal team can begin working on your case. Mr. Wise will begin by evaluating your unique circumstances before working with you to craft the strongest defense possible. With Mr. Wise in your corner, you may be able to have your drug crimes reduced – or even dropped altogether.

Give us a call at 312-345-6604, or by emailing [email protected] to set up a free confidential consultation in our Chicago office. Do not jeopardize your freedom by delaying—get in touch with us today!

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