DuPage County Drug Trafficking Defense Lawyers
Aggressively Defending Clients Charged with Drug Trafficking in Illinois
Penalties for drug trafficking in Illinois are harsher than any other drug crime. In fact, if you are convicted of this offense, you are looking at double the sentence for drug possession or drug manufacturing with intent to sell. If you are under investigation or have been charged drug trafficking, it is important to speak with a criminal attorney that has the experience and skill to defend your rights aggressively.
Since 1979, the award-winning attorneys at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices have provided a strong representation of individuals charged with drug trafficking and all other types of drug crimes in Chicago and throughout Illinois. Our lawyers are former prosecutors and former public defenders with extensive experience successfully litigating criminal cases at all levels of the state and federal court system. Our unique prosecutorial experience gives us an in-depth understanding of how the authorities will build their case against you and the most effective ways to challenge their case, so you can secure the best possible outcome.
Drug Trafficking Penalties in Illinois
A person can be convicted of drug trafficking if it can be proven that they brought marijuana or a controlled substance (such as cocaine, heroin or LSD) into Illinois with the intent to manufacture or deliver either within the state or elsewhere. Trafficking small amounts of marijuana (up to 10 grams) is a Class B or Class A Misdemeanor, with fines ranging from $1,500 to $2,500 and six months to a year in county jail. Trafficking over 10 grams of marijuana becomes a Felony with longer prison terms and fines starting at $25,000. Trafficking of a controlled substance in Illinois can be anywhere between a Class 3 and Class X Felony depending on the type of substance and the amount brought into the state. A conviction can result in a minimum of four years in prison and fines starting at $75,000.
Defending a Drug Trafficking Charge
There are a number of effective defense strategies against drug trafficking, depending on the circumstances. We start by examining the constitutionality of the procedures used by law enforcement, particularly as it pertains to search and seizure. We also investigate informants and other persons involved in the incident and identify any holes in their credibility. Potential defenses may include:
- Ignorance;
- Entrapment;
- Duress;
- Insanity; and
- Infancy (if charges are filed against a child under age 13).
At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we understand what is at stake when you are faced with a drug trafficking charge. A conviction can not only cost you your freedom and deliver a heavy blow to your finances, you may also have property (such as homes and vehicles) seized and have difficulty obtaining future employment, housing, admission to college, etc. In addition, if you are an immigrant, a trafficking conviction could jeopardize your immigration status. With so much on the line, it is critical to retain legal representation from attorneys with a strong track record of success in this area of the law. For a free consultation with one of our skilled Illinois drug crimes lawyers, contact our office today at 630-932-9100630-932-9100.
