Drug Lawyers in Waukegan, IL

Criminal Law Waukegan, IL

If you or someone close to you is charged with a drug related offense, it’s important to have quality legal guidance. The criminal defense attorneys at Daniels, Long and Pinsel have provided effective legal representation in countless drug cases. Our attorneys help to explain your options and get the best outcome possible. Call today to schedule a free consultation.

Information on Drug Offenses

There are multiple ways that drugs are related to crime. Many studies indicate that drug users are more likely than nonusers to commit crimes. In addition, locations in which drug markets proliferate tend to be disadvantaged, both economically and socially. The proliferation of lethal weapons in recent years increased violence associated with the use and sale of drugs. This complex relationship of crime and drugs makes it difficult to quantify the legal issues associated with drugs. Lawmakers have often gone overboard in trying to quantify this indeterminate relationship by creating strict drug laws based on simplistic assumptions. Such simplistic assumptions often lead to uneven punishment for similar drug abuse. In addition, judges have more guidelines and less discretion in sentencing.

The number of drug-related deaths due to homicides in addition to those of overdose deaths remain comparatively high in relation to other causes of crime-related deaths. Strong effort, however, is being made to combat this problem. In addition to street drugs, many people use prescription and over-the-counter drugs. A person may have a problem as a result of all of these areas of drug use and the law may be confused in determining blame for abuse. Basically, according to the law, abuse occurs if you take any drug for purposes other than for what it was intended such as for medical use. In fact, it is not street drugs but the drug store variety that dominate the statistics on drug-related deaths and emergencies. This may cause resentment among those with legal problems, and it is important to have the legal distinctions clarified by legal counsel and to have your rights protected. These factors make it critical to get legal help from the lawyers at DLP, to know where one stands, and what can be done to protect oneself.

Possible Drug Charges

  • Cannabis Trafficking
  • Cocaine Possession
  • Criminal Drug Conspiracy
  • Delivery of a Controlled Substance
  • Designer Drug
  • Distribution of drugs
  • Drug conspiracy
  • Drug trafficking
  • Ecstasy Possession
  • Enhanced Sentencing for Designated Drug Free Zones
  • Heroin Possession
  • Importation of drugs
  • Intent to deliver
  • Manufacturing of drugs
  • Possession of Controlled Substance
  • Possession with Intent to Distribute
  • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
  • Prescription drug fraud
  • Sale of drugs
  • Source of Bail Hearing
  • Transportation of drugs

Drug Charge FAQs in Lake County, IL

What’s the difference between possession and possession with intent to deliver?

Simple possession means you had a controlled substance for your own use. Possession with intent to deliver means the State claims you had it with the purpose of selling or distributing it. Prosecutors often rely on the amount, packaging, cash, scales, or messages on your phone to argue intent. Because intent charges are much more serious, the evidence in these cases deserves close review.

What are the penalties for drug possession in Illinois?

Penalties depend on the type and amount of the drug, whether you have prior convictions, and where the offense happened. Larger amounts and certain drugs can lead to felony charges with prison terms, while smaller amounts may be misdemeanors or lower-level felonies. Enhanced penalties can apply near schools or other protected areas. A lawyer can explain the specific charge and range that applies to your case. 

Is marijuana possession still a crime in Illinois?

It depends on the amount. Under Illinois law, possessing a small amount of cannabis, generally 10 grams or less, is treated as a civil violation with a fine rather than a criminal offense. Larger amounts can be criminal charges, and the rules for driving, public use, and possession in certain places are different. Because these thresholds matter, have a lawyer confirm how the rules apply to your situation.

Can I get probation or diversion for a first drug offense?

Possibly. Illinois has programs that can help some first-time drug offenders avoid a conviction, such as first-offender probation or court supervision. Eligibility depends on the drug, the amount, your history, and the judge’s discretion. Completing these programs successfully may allow the case to be dismissed.

Can drug charges be sealed or expunged?

Some can, depending on the charge, the outcome, and your history. A dismissed case, a not-guilty finding, or a completed first-offender program may qualify for sealing or expungement, while other convictions may not. Eligibility rules are specific and change over time, so a lawyer can check your record and file the petition if you qualify.

What should I do if police searched my car or home?

Stay calm and don’t physically resist, even if you believe the search is improper. You can state clearly that you do not consent to the search, but don’t argue with officers at the scene. Note what happened, including officer names and badge numbers, and call a criminal defense lawyer right away. Your lawyer can decide whether the search was lawful and whether evidence should be challenged.