How to Get a Drug Trafficking Charge Dismissed in Chicago

Updated on 11/27/2023 / Under

If you've been accused of illegal drug trafficking by law enforcement in Illinois, take these steps to try to get the drug charge dismissed or reduced. To understand the charges, consult with a criminal defense lawyer to review your defense options and the likelihood you can get your charge dismissed.

Contact Ktenas Law at (312) 756-8652 for drug conviction legal advice and an aggressive Chicago drug defense strategy. 

Fighting Against a Drug Trafficking Charge

When facing a drug trafficking charge in Illinois, it is important to understand the potential consequences and possible strategies for fighting against the charges. Drug trafficking is a serious offense with long-term penalties that can include lengthy prison sentences, fines, community service, and a criminal record that can follow you for life.

A skilled defense attorney can help you navigate the legal system and work to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

What are the Consequences of a Drug Trafficking Conviction in Illinois?

A drug trafficking conviction in Illinois has serious consequences. Understand the penalties before deciding what steps you will take. If convicted, you may go to prison, pay fines, and face other consequences. The amount of drugs involved in your case determines the severity of the punishment.

a man with a large amount of drugs in a bag

Individuals may face heavier penalties, including imprisonment for up to 50 years and fines of $500,000.A drug trafficking conviction also takes away civil rights, such as voting and owning firearms.

Finding an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Illinois

If you are charged with trafficking in Illinois, hire an experienced drug defense attorney. They will assess your case and advise on the best course of action.

When searching for an attorney, check their qualifications, references, and experience in drug trafficking laws and criminal convictions. An experienced defense attorney will provide the necessary legal advice and representation to protect your rights and achieve the best outcome for your case.

The Initial Consultation

The initial consultation is an important step when seeking to have a drug trafficking charge dismissed in Illinois. During this process, the accused will meet with their drug charges lawyer and legal team who will review the details of the drug trafficking scheme case and develop a strategy for how to proceed.

The drug charges attorney may suggest filing a motion to dismiss or negotiating a plea agreement deal to reduce or eliminate the drug distribution charges. It is important that during this consultation the accused understands their rights and the legal process to make an informed decision.

Preparing for the Initial Consultation

To prepare for an initial consultation with an attorney or law firm relating to accusations of drug trafficking in Illinois, follow these steps.

  • First, gather all relevant paperwork for your case. This includes police officers' reports, evidence, and other documents.
  • Second, create a detailed timeline of the events leading to your arrest. Understand the charge against you and the potential penalties if convicted. This will help you decide whether to pursue a plea deal or fight the charges in court.
  • Lastly, prepare questions for your attorney to answer during the consultation.

What Questions Should You Ask During Your Initial Consultation?

When meeting with an attorney for the first time to discuss a drug trafficking charge in Illinois, it is important to ask a few key questions during the initial consultation. These questions can help you understand your legal rights and options for defending against the charges.

a man discussing a drug trafficking charge with a defense attorney
  1. What is my best course of action to fight this arrest for drug trafficking charges? The attorney should be able to provide an overview of potential defenses and strategies that can be used to challenge the charges of drug trafficking.
  2. What are the potential penalties I am facing? Understanding the potential consequences if convicted is important in making an informed decision about how to proceed with your case.
  3. Are there any alternatives to a trial? Depending on the facts of your case, a plea deal may be an option. Ask your attorney if this is something they can explore for you.
  4. Are there any other legal options available? Depending on the specific facts of your case, there may be other legal options that the attorney can discuss with you.

How Much Does a Drug Defense Attorney Cost?

If you're charged with drug trafficking crimes in Illinois, you might worry about the cost of a drug crime charges lawyer. Luckily, there are ways to make legal representation more affordable. Some attorneys offer payment plans so you can pay in installments.

If you can't afford a lawyer, you may qualify for free or low-cost representation from the public defender's office. Additionally, if your income level qualifies, special funding programs may cover or reduce your legal fees.

Understanding the Illinois Drug Trafficking Laws and Charges

Illinois has strict drug laws. Drug trafficking is a serious offense in the state. It can result in prison time and fines. Understanding the laws and charges is important if you are facing drug trafficking charges in Illinois.

Drug trafficking includes transporting or selling drugs between states or countries. It also includes possessing drugs with the intent to distribute them. The charges can range from Class X felonies to Class 1 misdemeanors.

The penalties for drug trafficking convictions can include jail time, probation, fines, and other drug offense sanctions.

Illegal Substances Covered Under Illinois Drug Trafficking Laws

Drug trafficking in Illinois is illegal and can result in severe penalties. The law covers a variety of drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, LSD, MDMA (ecstasy), and GHB. Possession or sale of these drugs is prohibited.

Types of Drug Crimes Covered by Drug Trafficking Charges in Illinois

Drug trafficking charges in Illinois encompass a variety of drug-related crimes. These include possession with intent to distribute, manufacture, or distribute drugs, unauthorized drug delivery, and drug trafficking conspiracy.

Drug possession charges with intent to distribute is a common drug trafficking felony charge in Illinois. This occurs when someone is found with a large amount of controlled substances such as prescription drugs, marijuana, cocaine, etc.

police questioning a suspect after an arrest

Unauthorized drug sales or delivery and drug trafficking conspiracy are also covered by these charges. These offenses involve selling or delivering drugs without permission and two or more people agreeing to commit a drug-related crime.

Those involved in these activities can be held responsible for any resulting criminal charges.

Penalties for a Drug Trafficking Conviction in Illinois

Drug trafficking charges in Illinois are very serious and can result in negative consequences. If convicted, individuals may face prison time, fines, loss of certain rights, and a permanent criminal record.

The severity of the penalty depends on the type and amount of drugs. For example, possession of over 15 grams of a controlled substance with intent to deliver is considered a Class X felony. Penalties for this felony can include 6-30 years in prison and up to $200,000 in fines.

Ktenas Law Is Here To Help, Call Now!

If you're charged with drug trafficking in Illinois, Ktenas Law can help.

Our defense attorneys in Chicago will defend you and try to get your charges dropped. We understand how serious these charges are and will fight to protect your rights and freedom. We know Illinois laws and the court system well and will work closely with you to build a strong defense and get the best outcome.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

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