Prescription drugs help many individuals across the United States manage various medical conditions. However, the misuse and abuse of prescriptions is a growing concern, leading to strict regulations and potential criminal charges in Illinois. 1. Possession of...
Drug Offenses
What counts as drug trafficking?
The Illinois Controlled Substance Trafficking Act prohibits the transportation of any amount and class of illegal drugs across state lines. Specific parameters exist to determine trafficking violations. What is drug trafficking? Prosecutors must prove the defendants...
Can marijuana use lead to a DUI?
Drunk driving laws have been on the books for a long time, and researchers have developed straightforward ways to determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). Over time, lawmakers have adjusted the rules for “how much is too much” to be able to drive safely. Now that...
The impact of drug arrests on women
Men are arrested at higher rates than women, and men make up the majority of the prison population in the United States. But women make up an increasing number of drug arrests. The data only tells one side of the story. We must understand the impact that drug arrests...
Minors in Illinois can still get in trouble with the law for marijuana possession
Since the beginning of 2020, Illinois law has allowed possession of small amounts of marijuana, such as up to an ounce of flower and up to five grams of concentrated cannabis (i.e., hashish and tincture). While growing your own marijuana for recreational use is still...
Illinois law ends criminal justice cash bail system
Recently, Illinois became the first state in the U.S. to end the practice of requiring arrested people to post bail money or stay in jail until their criminal charges are resolved. This landmark law could be a step toward making the state's criminal justice system...
How state law identifies drug paraphernalia
Possessing dangerous drugs is not the only way to run afoul of drug laws. Both the state of Illinois and the federal government have criminalized the use and possession of items known as drug paraphernalia. In the event a police officer discovers paraphernalia during...
Drug charges as a parent
When people are charged with a drug-related offense, there are many different hurdles they have to overcome. From emotional challenges such as anxiety to financial problems, losing one's job and the prospect of spending time behind bars, these cases wreak havoc in the...
Fake drugs will still lead to charges
Whether a person does it as a joke or a way to scam people out of money, selling or distributing fake or artificial drugs is still a crime. According to the Illinois General Assembly, there is no difference between real and fake drugs when it comes to illegal...
Consequences for Illinois drug charges
Drug-related offenses carry strict penalties in Illinois. State laws provide guidelines about how the judge will handle possession, trafficking and related charges. Before your court date, learn more about the potential legal consequences for a conviction. Felony...