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Marijuana Possession with Intent to Distribute Defense Attorney in DuPage County, Illinois
Fighting Marijuana Possession with Intent to Distribute Charges in DuPage County, Illinois
Illinois law treats marijuana possession very differently from possession with intent to distribute. While personal use is legal within certain limits, distribution of marijuana without a state license is still a serious offense under 720 ILCS 550/5. Law enforcement in DuPage County, which includes Naperville, Wheaton, and Elmhurst, actively pursues individuals suspected of selling or distributing cannabis, leading to felony charges that carry long-term consequences.
If you have been charged with marijuana possession with intent to distribute, you need an aggressive defense. A conviction could mean years in prison, hefty fines, and a permanent record that affects future opportunities. At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we fight for those accused of marijuana-related offenses, ensuring their rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Illinois Laws on Marijuana Possession with Intent to Distribute
Illinois legalized the recreational use of marijuana, but unlicensed distribution remains a criminal offense. Under 720 ILCS 550/5, penalties for possession with intent to distribute depend on the amount of cannabis involved. Possession with intent to distribute less than 10 grams is a misdemeanor, while larger amounts result in felony charges.
The penalties escalate as follows:
- 10-30 grams is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines.
- 30-500 grams is a Class 4 felony, carrying 1 to 3 years in prison.
- 500-2,000 grams is a Class 3 felony, resulting in 2 to 5 years in prison.
- 2,000-5,000 grams is a Class 2 felony, punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison.
- More than 5,000 grams is a Class 1 felony, leading to 4 to 15 years in prison.
If the alleged offense occurred near a school, park, or other protected area, sentencing enhancements apply, leading to even harsher penalties. Federal charges may also come into play if the case involves large amounts of marijuana transported across state lines.
How Marijuana Distribution Cases Begin
Most marijuana distribution cases start with a police investigation, traffic stop, or surveillance operation. Law enforcement often uses informants, controlled buys, or undercover officers to collect evidence. When an individual is found in possession of large amounts of cannabis, officers may assume intent to distribute based on:
- The quantity of marijuana
- The presence of cash or packaging materials
- Text messages or other communications
- Prior history of drug-related offenses
The Importance of a Strong Legal Defense
A skilled defense attorney can challenge the evidence, argue for suppression of unlawfully obtained evidence, and present alternative explanations. In many cases, possession alone is not enough to prove intent to distribute, and an aggressive defense can lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
Contact a DuPage County Underage Marijuana Possession Defense Lawyer Today
If you or your child has been charged with underage possession of marijuana in DuPage County, it’s critical to have a strong defense attorney on your side. If you’ve been charged with a drug crime in Illinois, don’t wait to secure legal representation. We provide personalized attention, aggressive defense strategies, and a commitment to achieving the best possible results. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide guidance through every step of the legal process.
The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg provides aggressive legal representation for those accused of a drug crime in DuPage County and throughout Illinois. We offer free consultations 24/7 to discuss your case and legal options. Contact us today at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442 for dedicated defense in DuPage County, Cook County, Will County, Lake County, and the greater Chicago area.