A Drug Crime Defense Lawyer With The Experience To Fight Serious Felony And Misdemeanor Drug Charges
Possession of drugs, drug manufacturing, distribution, dealing and a wide variety of other allegations related to controlled substances may lead to serious charges. In any instance when the government chooses to pursue criminal charges, it is critical for you to work with a smart and aggressive drug crime defense attorney. A defense lawyer works hard to get drug charges dropped, dismissed, or what needs to be done to minimize the ultimate consequences based on a range of circumstances. Each criminal case is fact-specific, and you need to work with a trial attorney who cares about fighting for the most favorable outcome.
There Is No Routine Drug Crime Defense Strategy
Despite the ideas in popular culture to suggest that drug offenses are a thing of the past, law enforcement agencies and prosecutors do pursue drug charges aggressively. An accusation, however, is not proof of guilt. If you, or someone close to you, is under investigation or is facing charges it is critical for you to seek representation from a criminal defense attorney.
Many drug cases result from a routine traffic stop. Notably, routine seems like a word to suggest that because something is routine, there is no hope. That is not necessarily the true situation. Attorney Jessica Koester regularly challenges a wide range of issues in state and federal criminal court. A strong criminal defense may require multiple challenges in pre-trial motions.
To arrange a free consultation with a criminal defense trial attorney, call 618-307-4192. Available 24/7.
Details Specific To Each Drug Charge Are Critical
A criminal case over alleged possession of drugs is not necessarily just simply claiming that the drugs belong to someone else. It takes a full review of every detail to analyze the facts, procedures and circumstances to develop an appropriate strategy for an aggressive defense. A strong defense involves attention to detail, knowledge of the law, and a focus on the individual facts and circumstances. Ms. Koester fights the charges with a strategic and tailored criminal defense. Moreover, she does not fear taking a case before a jury in the trial court.
Pre-Trial Work Is Important In Seeling To Dismantle The Prosecution In Drug Crime Defense
The potential evidence in criminal charges related to drug crimes varies widely. While consitutional issues related to search and seizure, the validity or flaws in search warrants and other issues tied to the drug crime procedures, a detail-oriented trial attorney will explore everything. The crime lab may analyze drugs to identify the controlled substance, potential weight or volume of the alleged drugs and many other factors. You need a drug crime defense attorney who knows the details about where to look in the evidence with a keen eye.
Your lawyer may seek to question the chain of custody of the evidence. She may look for flaws in how the police is handling of the evidence. Were there opportunities for the evidence to get tainted in the chain of custody. Did the crime labe mishandle the evidence? Were the lab tests accurate — was the testing equipment properly maintained and calibrated? These are vital issues to explore.
Notably, the trial itself is the final step in criminal defense. Pre-trial work is vital. When flaws exist, they may lead to pre-trial challenges to supress evidence. Succesful motions to supress weaken the government’s case and may even eliminate much or all of the foundation for the prosecution’s case.
Controlled Substance Crimes May Not Always Involve Street Drugs
Many people understand that Illinois prohibits a vast range of controlled substances, including:
- Marijuana drug crimes
- Heroin possession and sale
- Methamphetamine related crimes, includingcooking or manufacturing
- Cocaine and crack offenses
Trafficking, distribution, possession and possession with the intent to sell drugs are common accusations. However, prescription medications are a common basis for drug charges in Edwardsville and the surrounding comminities. Prescription medication crimes may involve an expansive list of allegations. It is critical to seek out the guidance of an experience controlled substance criminal defnese lawyer when the state or federal authorities pursue a drug crime invtitgation or the filing of formal charges to help you to protect your rights.
The Consequences Of A Drug Offense Conviction Run Deep
In addition to heavy fines and prison or jail time, drug charges, no matter how minor, can stay on your permanent record and affect your ability to obtain employment, attend college or join the armed forces. If you have been charged, or are under investigation for an alleged felony or misdemeanor drug crime, it is in your best interests to seek experienced legal representation.
The Law Office of Jessica Koester, LLC, in Edwardsville, helps clients with all types of criminal charges, including drug possession, trafficking and other drug crimes. It is important to fight these types of charges at every step, and the firm is fully prepared to provide personal attention, sound advice and strong advocacy throughout the process.
To speak to a criminal defense trial lawyer about your misdemeanor or serious felony drug charge, call 618-307-4192 now or send an email. Call 24/7.
Representation For Possession, Trafficking And Other Drug Charges From An Experienced Edwardsville Criminal Defense Trial Attorney
Illinois is cracking down on drug crimes, particularly for felony and misdemeanor possession or sale of marijuana, heroin and other drugs. Like in any serious drug offense, when drug charges involve allegations of distribution or drug trafficking, the skill, knowledge and aggressive stance of your lawyer are critical. Inaction can result in spending decades in prison after a conviction. Even juveniles who are found smoking marijuana or other substances can become ineligible to serve in the military or for student financial aid, loans or grants from the government.
Edwardsville drug crime defense attorney Jessica Koester has the experience and skill to effectively represent adults and juveniles with felony or misdemeanor drug charges. She has substantial experience across the spectrum of cases, including high-level serious federal drug charges. It is important to note that allegations of serious drug offenses may get the attention of prosecutors in both state and federal court. Depending on your case, strategy may involve arranging for an alcohol or drug evaluation to help minimize the long-term consequences of your arrest. Ms. Koester is also a criminal defense litigator who will fight for your rights in court.
Learn More With These Answers To Common Questions About Drug Crimes
It can be terrifying to face a drug charge and find yourself thrust into the middle of the criminal justice system without warning. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions clients have:
If convicted of a drug charge, will I go to jail?
Maybe. It will depend largely upon the charges you face and your prior criminal history. First-time offenders who are convicted of minor possession charges may qualify for alternative programs that will allow them to avoid serving time, but more serious charges will generally involve jail or prison. You should never make any decisions about your case until you have spoken to an experienced attorney about your options.
Is marijuana legal to possess in Illinois?
Recreational marijuana has been legal in Illinois since 2020, but there are specific rules that must be followed for its possession and use. For example, you can still be arrested for having marijuana on your person if you are under 21 years of age, carrying more than 30 grams of cannabis lower, more than five grams of cannabis concentrate or more than 500 mg of THC in edible form at one time. If you are not an Illinois resident, then you are only permitted to possess half of those amounts on your person while in this state.
Can I be charged with a drug crime if I have medication on me but no prescription?
Yes. In fact, you can be charged with a felony simply for having your own, legal medications on your person without proof of the prescription. Prescription drug crimes are treated just as seriously as crimes involving street drugs, so you need immediate legal representation to protect your rights and your future.
Does the drug involved affect the charges I might face?
Yes. Illegal drugs are divided into different “classes,” based on their usefulness as medication and their potential for abuse and addiction. The higher the class of the drugs found in your possession, the more serious the potential charges may be. The quantity of the drugs in your possession is also a major factor in the drug charges you may face. If you have a quantity of drugs in your possession that the authorities believe is too much for personal use, you may face drug distribution or trafficking charges.
If the police ask to search my car, do I have to give my consent?
You do not ever have to give consent for the police to search your car, and you should not do so if they ask. Keep in mind, however, that refusal to grant permission for a search may not stop the authorities from pressing ahead. They may find another way to access your vehicle without your consent, through probable cause, incident to your arrest or via a search warrant.
Will prior offenses affect my current drug crime case?
Absolutely. Prior criminal convictions of any kind can cause the prosecutor or judge in your case to treat you more harshly since you will be considered a “repeat offender” with a disregard for the law. That is a critical consideration for anybody who is contemplating a plea agreement since a guilty plea is the same as a conviction on your record.
Protect Your Rights Today: Free Consultations
To schedule a free initial consultation, call 618-307-4192. Or, if you prefer to send an email, fill out the secure online submission form. All phone calls are returned the same day, even outside of regular business hours. The law firm is conveniently located within walking distance of the Edwardsville, Illinois, courthouse. Evening and weekend appointments are available. Ms. Koester fights criminal charges in state and federal court throughout the East St. Louis area.