All states regulate and control the possession of controlled substances (PCS), though each differs in its exact definition of PCS and the penalties for their possession. Illinois considers not only well-known drugs like marijuana, heroin, and cocaine to be controlled substances, but also the compounds used to manufacture them.
Drug crimes are one of the most common of criminal charges, and the drug laws in Illinois are very stringent. While penalties vary depending on the amount and type of drugs, convictions often carry harsh penalties, including lengthy incarceration, substantial fines, and strict probation.
Illinois law prohibits the sale, use, possession, manufacture, or transportation of a various drugs such as marijuana, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, LSD, and certain prescription drugs. Attorney Ramon A. Moore represents clients facing misdemeanor and felony drug charges. Call 312.332.5134 immediately if you are facing drug charges to schedule a meeting. Your initial consultation is free.
Illinois Controlled Substances Classifications
Illinois divides its controlled substances into the following five “schedules” based on factors such as their potential for abuse, and whether they are approved for legitimate medical use:
- Schedule I drugs (such as opiates and certain opium derivatives and hallucinogenic substances) have a high potential for abuse, no accepted medical use, or are unsafe for use in treatment, even under medical supervision.
- Schedule II drugs (such as coca leaves and opium) have a high potential for abuse, have an accepted medical use and can result in severe psychological and physical dependence if abused.
- Schedule III drugs (such some steroids) have a potential for abuse less than Schedule I or II drugs, have an accepted medical use and can lead to low or moderate physical dependence and high psychological dependence.
- Schedule IV drugs (such as diazepam) have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule III drugs, have an acceptable medical use and may lead to limited psychological and physical dependence in relation to Schedule III drugs.
- Schedule V drugs are the least dangerous, with the lowest potential for abuse, a currently accepted medical use, and likely to lead to only limited physical or psychological dependence. Schedule V drugs include medicines that have very small amounts of specified narcotic drugs.
Illinois Drug Offenses
Illinois drug offenses carry significant penalties, including long prison terms, hefty fines and other lifelong consequences. The following are some of the more common types of drug possession offenses:
- Possession of a Controlled Substance – Possession of illegal drugs.
- Possession of a Controlled Substance with the Intent to Deliver – Possessing drugs with the intent to sell or distribute them.
- Delivery of a Controlled Substance – Selling or distributing drugs.
Penalties of all offenses increase if committed within 1000 feet of a school, church, park, or daycare. It is crucial to have an experienced and skilled criminal defense attorney to represent you. If you are facing drug charges in Illinois, it is important to act quickly to protect your rights.