When you are charged with something like methamphetamine possession, your whole life has the potential to change. Not only are you facing possible prison time, but you could also lose your job and the support of friends and family. It’s during times like these that it can feel as if no one is on your side. Fortunately, a local defense lawyer can be the ultimate ally when you are facing meth possession charges.
You don’t have to have drugs in your pocket to be charged and even convicted of possession.
Possession merely means you have control over the drugs. This means you could be charged if they find meth on your property (vehicle, home) or within your reach. If someone puts their meth under the seat of your car, you can be charged.
Whether you admit the drugs were yours or if you are innocent of the charges against you, a local defense attorney can help.
Illinois Meth Possession Laws & Penalties
Because methamphetamines are considered highly addictive and dangerous, they are treated as one of the most serious drugs under Illinois law. If you are charged with possessing less than 15 grams of meth, you will face Class 4 felony charges.
A Class 4 felony conviction can result in up to 3 years in prison and $2,500 in fines. But, in most cases, where there isn’t an extensive criminal history, the court will allow you to have any prison sentence suspended to avoid incarceration and serve probation instead.
Sentencing Alternatives in Meth Pleas
In cases where you are willing to admit some level of guilt, your attorney may be able to work out a favorable plea agreement with the prosecutor. The vast majority of criminal cases in Illinois are settled in plea agreements. This could help you avoid any jail or prison time and get you into treatment if needed.
Depending on the jurisdiction of your case, you may also qualify to have it heard in the state’s drug courts. These courts are designed to get people help rather than punish them with prison time. They are similar to an intensive period of probation and always include drug treatment.
Defense Strategies
The best course of action for your case will depend on the individual facts of your case. Your attorney will be able to analyze the circumstances of your arrest and the evidence against you to help you determine the best defense strategy possible.
If you’re facing charges of methamphetamine possession in the state of Illinois, let us put you in touch with a local criminal defense lawyer today.