Chicago Drug Lawyer

Arrested for Drugs in Chicago?

[dt_divider style=”thick” /]

Drug Attorney in Chicago

Josh Adams has successfully defended individuals charged with state and federal crimes in the Illinois area. Serious offenses, such as  drug-related charges fall well within the strengths and abilities of Josh as a criminal defense attorney.

Contact Chicago Drug Lawyer Joshua Adams if you have been charged with a drug related crime in the Chicago, Illinois area.

Drug Crimes: Charges and Terminology

In both the federal and state criminal justice systems, most of the cases stem from charges of possession, manufacturing, or trafficking of controlled substances. Below you’ll find a brief overview of these offenses, as well as an explanation of some key terms related to drug crimes.

Controlled Substance

When a federal or state government classifies a certain substance as “controlled,” it generally means that the use and distribution of the substance is governed by law. Controlled substances are often classified at different levels or “schedules” under federal and state statutes. For example, under the federal Controlled Substances Act, marijuana is listed as a “Schedule I controlled substance,” cocaine is listed under Schedule II, anabolic steroids under Schedule III, and so on. The list includes a number of medications that are fairly common — you’ll find cough medicine containing low levels of codeine classified under Schedule V.

Distribution and Trafficking

As a drug charge, “distribution” usually means that a person is accused of selling, delivering, or providing controlled substances illegally. This charge is often used if someone tries to sell drugs to an undercover officer. Trafficking generally refers to the illegal sale and/or distribution of a controlled substance. Despite the name, trafficking has less to do with whether the drugs cross state lines, and more to do with the amount of drugs involved.

The consequences of a conviction for distribution and trafficking vary significantly depending on:

• the type and amount of the controlled substances(s) involved

• the location where the defendant was apprehended (for example, bringing an illegal substance into the country carries higher penalties, as does distributing drugs near a school or college), and

• the defendant’s criminal history.

Sentences for distribution and trafficking generally range from 3 years and a significant fine to life in prison — with trafficking carrying higher sentences.

[dt_divider style=”thin” /]

Contact a Chicago Drug Lawyer

Law Offices of Joshua Adams

53 W. Jackson Blvd. Suite 1651
Chicago, IL 60604
312-566-9173