A Chicago Criminal Defense Lawyer For State And Federal Drug Charges
Being charged and convicted of a drug crime can have a permanent effect on your future. If you have been accused of a drug crime and facing drug charges, you don’t have to do it alone. An experienced drug crimes defense attorney can fight to protect your rights and future.
Fenbert & Associates, is a criminal defense law firm in Chicago that serves clients throughout Cook, DuPage, Lake, Will and the surrounding counties. Its founding attorney, Richard Fenbert, provides aggressive representation for clients facing drug charges at both the state and federal levels.
Comprehensive Legal Representation For All Types Of Drug Charges
While some states have legalized drugs or otherwise lessened the penalties for possession, you can still face possible prison time in Illinois for crimes related to marijuana, cocaine, meth, heroin, oxycontin, oxycodone, LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, DMT, MDMA, ecstasy, prescription drugs and other controlled substances. Attorney Fenbert represents clients who are facing charges for:
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Drug trafficking
- Drug manufacturing
- Drug distribution
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Money laundering, fraud or other white collar offenses related to drug crimes
- Gun charges related to drug crimes
When you are under investigation, or if you have been arrested for possession, distribution or trafficking of any of these, you need an experienced drug crime defense lawyer on your side as soon as possible. Having a trusted attorney by your side can make a significant difference in navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system in Cook County and beyond. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will be able to assess your case, identify any potential defenses, represent you in court and provide you with legal guidance throughout your court proceedings and trial.
Answers To Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Crimes
After practicing as a criminal defense attorney for many years, attorney Fenbert commonly gets asked the same questions about drug crimes. Here, he has provided answers to some of those questions. For questions about your specific circumstances, he offers a free consultation.
What should I do if I’m arrested for drug possession in Chicago?
It can be difficult to know what to do or know what to say after you have been arrested for drug possession, or any drug crime. First and foremost, it is important to stay calm and remember your rights:
- You have the right to remain silent
- You have the right to have an attorney present
Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Avoid making any statements to the police without your lawyer present. Contact a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer who understands Illinois drug laws and can guide you through the legal process.
In addition, keep all documents and evidence related to your arrest, as they may be crucial for your defense. It’s important to attend all court dates and follow your attorney’s advice closely.
What are the potential defenses to a drug trafficking charge in Illinois?
Facing a drug trafficking charge in Illinois can be daunting, but several defenses may be available. An attorney can help evaluate the circumstances of your arrest and the evidence against you. One common defense is challenging the legality of the search and seizure. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, any evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
Another defense might involve questioning the ownership or knowledge of the drugs, particularly if they were found in a shared space. Additionally, your lawyer might explore whether there was any entrapment involved, which occurs when law enforcement induces someone to commit a crime they otherwise wouldn’t have committed. It’s crucial to have a skilled drug crimes defense lawyer who can assess these factors and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your case.
How can a drug crime conviction impact my future employment opportunities in Illinois?
A drug crime conviction in Illinois can significantly impact your employment prospects. Employers often conduct background checks, and a criminal record may raise concerns about reliability and trustworthiness. Certain professions, especially those requiring licenses or security clearances, may be inaccessible due to a conviction.
Some employers might also have policies against hiring individuals with criminal records, particularly for drug-related offenses. However, Illinois offers options to mitigate these effects. Expungement or sealing of records may be possible for certain drug offenses, which can help remove barriers to employment. An experienced defense lawyer can advise you of your options and potentially minimize the impact of a conviction. A dedicated defense attorney can provide guidance on navigating the legal system, thereby improving your chances of maintaining or securing employment.
Thoughtful Defense For Juvenile Drug Charges
A juvenile who is charged and convicted of a drug crime will carry the effect of that charge into their future. Getting swept up in the criminal justice system at an early age can affect young people’s lives for years to come. It is important to protect the future of minors facing drug-related charges by hiring an experienced drug defense attorney. If your child is in trouble for drugs, a defense lawyer can help your family find an appropriate, forward-thinking solution that puts your child’s best interests first.
Consult A Chicago Drug Crimes Defense Attorney For Free
At Fenbert & Associates, attorney Fenbert offers clients a free initial consultation. He will listen to your story, help you assess your circumstances and tell you more about how he can help you with your case. To schedule your free appointment, call him at 630-917-2051 or send him a message through the firm’s contact form.