For most people, the thought of drug crimes elicits images of dangerous substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin. What many people fail to realize is that “street drugs,” such as cocaine and the like, are not the only type of drugs that you can get into trouble for possessing. Certain drugs that are used to treat medical conditions are technically legal to possess and consume -- but only if you have a valid prescription. If you do not have a current prescription and you are caught in possession of these drugs, you could be charged with prescription drug possession, which is a serious crime in Illinois.

What Substances Are Illegal Without a Prescription?

As a way to classify the different types of drugs, the United States federal government has established a schedule of controlled substances. Some illegal drugs are not as dangerous as others and therefore, crimes involving different substances should not be punished in the same ways. Some of the most notorious illegal drugs include those such as LSD, ecstasy, and fentanyl, but you can also be charged with possessing prescription drugs that are typically prescribed by a medical doctor. Examples of controlled prescription drugs include:

Sometimes, a traffic stop is nothing more than just that, but other times, it can lead to serious trouble. A woman, who was stopped for speeding in Illinois and is now facing drug charges, serves as a prime example. Learn more about how this case (and others) can quickly change into a serious situation, and discover how an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help if you or someone you love ends up in a similar situation.

Drug Dog Caught Scent During Traffic Stop

News sources indicate that the officers had originally stopped the woman for speeding, but a drug dog picked up a scent during the process. Her vehicle was then searched. Officers allegedly found methamphetamines, paraphernalia, and packaging materials. She was arrested and detained and is now facing charges for possession of methamphetamines with the intent to deliver, which is a more severe charge than simple possession.

Although the use of medical marijuana is legal in the state of Illinois, there are numerous rules and regulations that one must follow to avoid the possibility of criminal penalties. This risk remains, even for those with severe or debilitating conditions. Learn more about how to prevent legal trouble as a medical marijuana user, and what you can do if you should find yourself facing drug possession charges.

Understanding the Rules and Regulations

To qualify as a medical marijuana user in the state of Illinois, one must be a resident of the state. Further, you must have a qualifying medical condition and be at least 18 years of age. Individuals must also complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check. Further, you cannot be an active member of law enforcement or a firefighter, and you cannot have a commercial driver’s license (this includes licenses required for operating a school bus). Failure to meet any of these requirements could bar you from receiving your medical marijuana card.

Even as other states began legalizing the possession of marijuana, and cities throughout Illinois began to decriminalize it, Illinois held steadfast to the laws that put hundreds of low-level, nonviolent offenders in jail. That has all changed, thanks to the recent passing of Senate Bill 2228. Understand what this bill means for you and your family, and how it may affect you in the future, should you find yourself stopped with marijuana on your person.

Possession Under 10 Grams No Longer a Criminal Offense

Prior to the bill, possession of 2.5 grams of marijuana or less was charged as a Class C misdemeanor, which carried a jail term of up to 30 days. Possession of 2.5 to 10 grams was charged as a Class B misdemeanor, which carried up to a six month jail term. Conviction on either level also resulted in significant fines. Effective immediately, these laws are no longer considered valid. Instead, possession of 10 grams or less is now considered a civil offense, which limits the punishment of being caught with it in your possession to a fine of $200.

Use of illegal drugs is one of the largest social, economic, and political issues in contemporary America. Between the legalization of marijuana in some states, the widespread abuse of opiates (including prescription narcotics) and opiate overdoses, and the ease of accessibility to these substances, illegal drugs can cause a host of problems. When these issues extend to legal problems and drug charges, it is critical to contact an Illinois criminal defense attorney.

There are varying degrees of drug charges in the State of Illinois, and many carry very different, and often stiff penalties in their wake. Consider the following list of common street narcotics and the results if convicted when found in one's possession:

Heroin and substances containing heroin: Possession of heroin, or any substance containing heroin, carries very stiff consequences. Being caught with anywhere between 15 to 99 grams of Heroin can bring a four to fifteen year prison sentence, as well as a fine of up to $200,000.