Naperville, Illinois Drug Crimes Attorneys

Lawyers Helping Clients Defend Against Drug Charges in Naperville

There are a variety of reasons why people may be accused of offenses related to controlled substances. Certain types of drugs are considered to be dangerous, with the potential for addiction, abuse, overdoses, and other forms of harm. People who possess illegal drugs may face criminal charges, and those who are accused of manufacturing or distributing drugs may be treated even more harshly.

Because drug crimes can lead to serious consequences, including jail time, large fines, and a permanent criminal record, it is crucial for anyone facing these types of charges to determine their best options for defending against a conviction. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., our attorneys work with clients in Naperville who have been charged with drug-related offenses. We can review the procedures followed during investigations, address violations of our clients' rights, provide guidance on diversion programs or other options that may be available, and take steps to resolve cases successfully.

Attorney Spotlight

Attorney Spotlight

Donald Ramsell

Attorney Profile

Donald Ramsell is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney who has represented clients in more than 500 bench trials and 100 jury trials. He is the author of leading publications on DUI defense in Illinois, and he has defended more than 10,000 DUI cases. He has handled numerous appeals in Illinois, and he also argued a case before the United States Supreme Court.

• National College of DUI Defense, Sustaining Member
• Top 100 Trial Lawyer Award, National Trial Lawyers
• Super Lawyers
• Elite Lawyer
• Leading Lawyers

Substances That May Lead to Drug Charges

The ways different types of drugs are addressed in criminal cases will depend on their potential for abuse, whether they have any accepted medical uses, and the possibility of harm due to overdoses or other issues. Drug charges may involve a wide variety of substances, including:

• Heroin: This drug is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance with no accepted medical uses. Drug charges related to heroin will often involve severe penalties, and possession or distribution of relatively small amounts can lead to felony charges, lengthy prison sentences, and massive fines.
• Fentanyl: This synthetic opioid is often more potent than heroin. It has resulted in a large number of overdose deaths across the state and throughout the country. Because of the risks, people who are charged with offenses related to fentanyl may face harsh penalties.
• Cocaine: This drug is a Schedule II substance, and the penalties for possession and distribution will usually be based on the weight of the substance involved. Charges may apply for cocaine in powder form or in the form of rocks, which is commonly known as "crack."
• Methamphetamine: This drug can be dangerous, leading to serious health issues for users while also putting others at risk of harm due to explosions in meth labs or exposure to toxic substances. People charged with crimes related to possessing, manufacturing, or distributing meth may face severe penalties.
• Prescription Drugs: Medications such as opioids or stimulants can lead to criminal charges in cases where people are accused of possessing pills without a valid prescription, obtaining drugs using forged prescriptions, or selling or distributing medications to others.

Reasons People May Face Drug Possession Charges

Law enforcement officers may find controlled substances in a person's possession during a search. They may frisk a person who has been detained, or they may search a vehicle during a traffic stop, and any drugs that are found may lead to charges of drug possession. Drugs may also be found when a person's home or other property is searched, although a search warrant will usually be required.

The penalties that may apply for drug possession charges will usually be based on the types of substances and the amounts found. In some cases, small amounts of drugs may lead to misdemeanor charges, but felony charges may apply for larger quantities of drugs or drugs that are considered to be dangerous.

Possession With Intent to Distribute

A prosecutor may claim that a person possessed a controlled substance with the intent to deliver or distribute it to others. This can lead to charges of drug distribution rather than drug possession, and a person may face more serious penalties. These accusations may be based on circumstantial evidence, such as a large quantity of a substance, the presence of packaging materials or scales, large amounts of cash, or text messages that indicate that a person was selling drugs. Our attorneys can challenge these claims and take steps to prevent a conviction for drug distribution.

Drug Manufacturing Charges

A person may face charges of drug manufacturing when they are accused of producing a controlled substance or preparing to sell or distribute drugs. People who are accused of operating meth labs may be charged with drug manufacturing, and evidence such as chemicals or equipment may play a role in a case. Drug manufacturing charges may also apply when a person is accused of packaging drugs for distribution, and the evidence involved in a case may include scales, small baggies, or vials. The penalties for drug manufacturing are similar to the penalties for drug distribution.

Defense Strategies in Drug Crime Cases

Our lawyers can advise clients on the best options for defending against drug charges. We may be able to use strategies such as:

• Challenging Illegal Searches: Many investigations of drug crimes involve unreasonable searches and seizures. If police officers conducted searches without obtaining search warrants or went beyond what a search warrant allowed, our attorneys can show that a person's constitutional rights were violated. We will work to ensure that evidence obtained through an unlawful search will be excluded from a criminal case.
• Questioning the Chain of Custody of Evidence: Drugs seized during searches may be tested by labs to identify the substances. However, questions may arise about whether the substance tested by a laboratory is the same substance recovered during a search. Our lawyers can look for gaps in the chain of custody to determine whether lab results can be challenged.
• Disputing Knowledge of Drugs: We may be able to show that our client had no knowledge of the drugs that they allegedly possessed. In cases where drugs were found in a home, we may argue that our client was unaware of the drugs.
• Negotiating Alternative Sentencing: Some people may qualify for probation, drug court programs, or other options that will allow them to resolve a case without a criminal conviction. We can advocate for solutions that will provide a person with treatment for drug abuse and help them avoid long-term penalties.

Contact Our Naperville, IL Drug Crimes Lawyers

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., our lawyers can provide dedicated representation for people who are facing drug charges. Whether a case involves possession, distribution, manufacturing, or other offenses related to controlled substances, we can take steps to defend against a conviction and help a person avoid problems that could affect their life and their future. Contact our Naperville drug crimes defense attorneys at 630-256-8001 to arrange a free consultation.