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Your Rights MatterAttorney Hallack understands that clients need a combination of aggressive yet compassionate counsel at this time. -
Genuine. Diligent. Ethical.Don't choose a Chicago defense lawyer who is in it for the money. I genuinely want to help you straighten out your life!
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Free Case ConsultationWhen the stakes are high, you will need a defense strategy that can aggressively and effectively combat any allegations!
Chicago Drug Defense Attorney
Retain the Advocacy You Need Today
In Illinois, "controlled substance" charges are always felonies and include drugs other than cannabis. Controlled substance charges usually involve the following drugs:
The Illinois statute for controlled substances is 720 ILCS 570/401 – 414. Methamphetamine is listed separately under 720 ILCS 646/1 – 120.
Common Narcotics Charges in Chicago, IL
Drug-related charges are extremely common throughout the country. In Illinois, charges for drugs other than cannabis usually occur in two broad categories: possession under 720 ILCS 570/402 or manufacturing/delivering/possessing with intent to deliver under 720 ILCS 570/401.
Possessing a drug without evidence of selling it is known as "simple possession." You likely will be charged with simple possession if you have a small amount, in one bag or container, and no scale is nearby.
On the other hand, you may be charged with manufacturing/delivering/possessing with intent to deliver if you have a large amount, have multiple containers, or a scale is nearby. Obviously, if you deliver to an undercover officer or an informant, you will be charged with delivery.
Regardless of whether you are charged with simple possession or something more, the government has the burden of proving beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly possessed the drug. As with all drug charges, you cannot be convicted of possessing something you were unaware of. Additionally, even if you knowingly possessed the drug, the evidence may be suppressed if law enforcement disregarded the Constitution in order to arrest you.
Want to further explore your defense options? Contact Hallock Law today!
Alternatives to a Prison Sentence
Chicago Defense Attorney Thomas Hallock's primary goal is always to obtain a complete dismissal of your charges or a not guilty verdict at trial. If this is not an option, his fallback position is to obtain court supervision or expungeable probation. Both options give you the opportunity to avoid incarceration and dispose of the charges without a conviction. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to remove the arrest from your criminal record.
Contact Thomas C. Hallock if you need a skilled and committed drugs and narcotics defense attorney in Chicago. Schedule your free case evaluation today!
Helpful Tips From Me To You
How To Properly Exercise Your Constitutional Rights
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What You Should Do
- Be respectful.
- Calmly record the interaction.
- Ask if you are free to leave. If you do not ask, the officer may think - and the judge may agree - that the interaction is consensual.
- If you are free to leave, go! If you are not free to leave, do not answer any questions before speaking with your attorney.
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What You Should Not Do
- Do not physically resist arrest.
- Do not become aggressive or confrontational.
- Do not consent to a search. The Constitution does not apply if you consent.
- Do not answer questions without first speaking with your attorney. Police are allowed to hold you for 48 hours and they may lie to you the entire time.
