Gurnee Drug Possession Lawyer

Legal Representation to Fight Your Drug Possession Charges

Drug possession offenses can range from very serious to relatively minor. You may be facing either felony or misdemeanor charges, depending on the substance that was allegedly in your possession and the quantity involved. Prior drug convictions may also be relevant. The collateral consequences of a drug possession conviction can be just as damaging as the judicial consequences. Many landlords will not rent to people with drug-related convictions, and many employers will not hire a person they believe to be a drug addict.

The good news is that there are many ways a criminal defense attorney can help in these situations. Especially if this is your first contact with the criminal justice system, you may have opportunities to enter a substance abuse treatment program that could minimize any consequences of your arrest. Brady Cole Trial Lawyers is committed to doing what is best for our clients who are facing drug possession charges. We customize our criminal defense strategy for each client in order to build the strongest and most beneficial defense possible.

Understanding Drug Possession Charges in Wisconsin

If you are in Wisconsin, you are more likely to face drug possession charges than people in many other states for the simple reason that marijuana remains illegal in the state. A significant portion of drug possession arrests in Wisconsin, and other states with these types of prohibitions, pertain to simple personal use of cannabis. While a first arrest will typically lead to misdemeanor charges, a second or subsequent arrest is usually charged as a felony, putting you in serious legal jeopardy.

Possession of "hard" drugs like heroin or methamphetamine can be treated much more harshly. You could be charged with a felony even for a first offense in some cases. It is important to take your drug charges very seriously and work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can fight to guard you against potentially harsh consequences.

Drug Possession Lawyer in Illinois

While marijuana, which has historically been the reason for a large number of drug possession cases, is now legal for recreational use in Illinois, the laws pertaining to other substances can be harsh. For possession of "hard drugs" like heroin, methamphetamines, or cocaine, you are likely to be charged with a felony, and if you are convicted, you may be sentenced to more than a year in prison, even for a first offense. There is little tolerance for drug crimes in Illinois.

It is important to raise the strongest possible defense in order to minimize your chances of facing severe penalties. There are a number of defense strategies Brady Cole Trial Lawyers is well-versed in. We will begin by conducting a careful review of the facts and circumstances surrounding your arrest. Some drug charges stem from illegal and unconstitutional searches or stops, which can effectively invalidate the arrest. Our goal is to identify the defense strategy that will be most beneficial to you.

How Diversion Programs Can Help

Courts in both Illinois and Wisconsin are well aware that addiction is a common driving factor in many criminal cases. They are also aware that addiction is a treatable problem. Especially if this is your first offense, you may qualify for a type of diversion program that involves treatment for substance abuse, often in lieu of jail time. In some cases, entering a diversion program can even help you keep your criminal record clean.

If you are eligible for one of these programs - and committed to recovery - this option may work well for you. Our attorneys will be sure to discuss all potential options and outcomes with you so that you know what to expect in your specific situation. Our goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome in each case.

Contact a Lake County Drug Possession Lawyer

If you are facing drug possession charges, Brady Cole Trial Lawyers can help. We have years of experience helping individuals in this situation fight back, and we have helped many clients achieve positive resolutions to their cases. For a free consultation, please contact us at 847-752-9639.