I Have Been Charged with Cocaine Possession. Will I Go to Prison?

 Posted on May 12, 2023 in Drug Crimes

Like most other states, Illinois has stiff penalties for drug crimes, such as possessing a controlled substance. Illinois recognizes cocaine as a Schedule I drug, meaning that there is a very high risk of abusing the substance, and there is no accepted medical use for the drug. While the ultimate sentence that an individual may face is based on the charges, circumstances of the case, and the individual’s criminal history, jail time is certainly a possibility. Today, we will discuss what you need to know about being charged with cocaine possession in Illinois. As always, if you have found yourself in this situation, contact a criminal defense attorney right away.

Here is What You Need to Know About Cocaine Possession

In Illinois, possession of a small amount of cocaine, like less than 15 grams, is considered to be a Class 4 felony offense, which, if you are convicted, may land you in prison for up to one year and paying fines of up to $25,000. Assuming this is a first-time offense, it is not overly probable that you will serve prison time on a first-time offense of possessing a small amount of cocaine. However, an experienced criminal defense lawyer will still be crucial in defending your rights and interests against the charges.

Furthermore, if you are charged with possessing an amount of cocaine between 15 and 100 grams, this is a Class 1 Felony, which can result in a sentence between 4 and 15 years in prison and fines up to $200,000. If arrested for possessing between 100 and 400 grams of cocaine, this too is a Class 1 Felony, punishable by between six and 30 years in prison and fines up to $200,000.

As you may notice, the more cocaine you are found with, the longer jail term you could potentially serve. As such, possessing between 400 and 900 grams is, of course, a Class 1 Felony and can result in a prison sentence of between eight and 40 years, with fines of $200,000. And finally, 900+ grams of cocaine can result in a prison sentence between 10 and 50 years in prison, with fines of $200,000.

So, while being charged with cocaine possession does not automatically mean you will go to prison, the amount you are charged with and whether it is your first offense can play a major role in whether you end up serving time in prison.

Contact an Arlington Heights, IL, Drug Crimes Attorney

If you have been charged with cocaine possession, you need to act quickly to ensure you understand your legal options. For high-quality legal counsel, contact the Rolling Meadows, IL drug crimes lawyer with Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law. Call 847-253-3400 for a free consultation.

Source - https://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/077/07702070sections.html