Buffalo Grove, Illinois Federal Drug Crimes Defense Attorney

Skilled Lawyer for Federal Drug Charges in Lake County

Have you been charged with a federal drug crime in Illinois? If so, there is important information you need to know about the charges and protecting your rights. When facing such serious criminal charges, you need a skilled legal advocate who understands the complex federal court system. Our Lake County, IL federal drug crime attorney at The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C. can give you experienced legal advice you can trust. Attorney Matthew R. Gebhardt has practiced criminal law for over 20 years, and has extensive experience handling federal drug crimes.

Defending Against Federal Drug Charges in Buffalo Grove

Federal drug crimes are handled through the federal court system, not the state courts. This means that federal law, not Illinois state law, will apply to your case. Additionally, if convicted, penalties could include a sentence in federal prison. Federal authorities treat drug crimes seriously, and the government's many law enforcement agencies aggressively go after suspected offenders.

There are many different federal drug crimes, each of which has its own set of potential penalties upon conviction. Just like state drug charges, every federal drug charge is different. Some common federal drug charges include:

• Drug trafficking;
• Drug manufacturing;
• Distribution;
• Conspiracy to manufacture or distribute;
• Selling in a school zone or to minors; and
• Importing drugs into or exporting drugs from the United States

These are just a few examples of federal drug crimes. The potential penalties upon conviction depend on the exact charge, the type and amount of substance involved, and whether the defendant had any prior drug convictions. Federal sentencing guidelines often require a minimum prison sentence for those convicted of federal drug crimes. The best way to handle your federal drug charge is to call on an experienced, reputable criminal lawyer. Attorney Matthew R. Gebhardt has a successful track record defending drug cases, and will aggressively advocate for you every step of the way.

How Should You Respond to a Federal Drug Crime Investigation?

Learning that you are the subject of a federal drug crime investigation can be frightening, but how you respond in the early stages can shape the outcome of the case. Avoid speaking with federal agents or investigators without an attorney present, even if the conversation seems casual or routine. Statements made during these early contacts can be used against you later, even if they seem harmless at the time.

Do not attempt to destroy evidence, contact witnesses, or delete communications, since these actions can lead to separate charges on top of the original investigation. It is also wise to avoid discussing the case with friends, family, or coworkers.

Contacting an attorney as early as possible gives you the best chance to understand the scope of the investigation and begin building a defense before charges are formally filed.

Contact a Buffalo Grove, IL Federal Drug Crimes Lawyer

Former criminal prosecutor Matthew R. Gebhardt spent five years prosecuting drug crimes. During that time, he learned exactly what it takes to successfully prosecute a criminal case. Now, our federal drug crimes lawyer uses that insider knowledge to his clients' advantage. For over 20 years, he has practiced criminal law in and around Cook County, and fully understands the criminal justice system.

Our law firm has successfully defended clients in every type of criminal case, from minor marijuana possession to federal drug crimes. You can rely on our law firm to provide experienced, honest legal advice. Our clients trust us to provide straightforward answers to the most complex legal questions. Attorney Gebhardt communicates directly with every client, so each client gets the full benefit of his unique legal experience. To schedule a free consultation with The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C., contact our Buffalo Grove, Illinois federal drug crime attorney or call 847-239-4703 today.