Buffalo Grove, Illinois Methamphetamine Charges Defense Attorney

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Knowledgeable Criminal Lawyer Defending Against Meth Drug Charges in Lake County, IL

If you have been charged with methamphetamine possession or another drug crime, you are likely aware that your whole life could change completely—and not for the better. Not only could you be facing prison time, but you also face an entire litany of other serious consequences, including the loss of employment, the loss of support from family and friends, and a permanent blot on your record. You may feel as though you are completely alone, with no one by your side.

Fortunately for you, Attorney Matthew R. Gebhardt understands your predicament and has the experience and knowledge necessary to help you through this difficult time. With more than 20 years' experience both as a former criminal prosecutor and a successful Illinois drug crimes defense attorney, our Buffalo Grove meth defense attorney has the skills necessary to effectively represent you in court.

The Various Charges Associated with Methamphetamines in Illinois

The state of Illinois has enacted a special law known as the Methamphetamine Control and Community Protection Act, which governs offenses associated with methamphetamine. You may be charged with possession of methamphetamine, or possession of the dangerous chemical ingredients of the drug, many of which can be obtained over the counter at drugstores.

You could also be charged with "cooking" meth, producing meth, or selling or distributing the drug. If you were involved in any capacity in the preparation of methamphetamine, it is crucial that you have an aggressive defense attorney by your side to provide effective representation and minimize the potentially life-altering consequences of a conviction. Matthew R. Gebhardt is an attorney with the skills to do just that by fighting hard for your rights while discovering the weaknesses in the prosecutor's case.

What are the Potential Penalties for a Conviction for Methamphetamine Charges?

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive substance as well as extremely volatile for those who manufacture the drug. The following are the potential penalties you could face if convicted of a methamphetamine crime:

  • Possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine is a felony charge carrying between two and five years in prison.
  • Possession of five to 15 grams of methamphetamine carries between three and seven years in prison.
  • Possession of 15-100 grams of methamphetamine could result in four to 15 years in prison.
  • Possession of 100-400 grams of methamphetamine could result in six to 30 years in prison and a fine as high as $100,000.
  • Possession of 400-900 grams of methamphetamine could result in eight to 40 years in prison and a fine as high as $200,000 (or the street value of the meth).
  • Possession of more than 900 grams of methamphetamine could result in 10-50 years in prison and a fine as high as $200,000 (or the street value of the meth).
  • Should you be convicted of manufacturing methamphetamine, you could face anywhere from four to 60 years in prison and fines up to $400,000.

If you were caught in possession of methamphetamine or selling methamphetamine near a school or church, or if you were in possession of a gun at the time of your arrest, you could face enhanced penalties.

Contact a Buffalo Grove Meth Charges Defense Lawyer Today

Should you and your criminal defense attorney determine it is in your best interests to admit some level of guilt, your attorney may be able to work out a favorable plea bargain with the prosecutor. You might also qualify to have your methamphetamine case heard in the state's drug courts, which generally offer an intensive period of probation and drug treatment.

The strength of your methamphetamine charges will be based on physical evidence, and Lake County, IL meth charges attorney Matthew R. Gebhardt may be able to challenge the validity of that evidence related to how it was obtained, found, tested or seized. For an experienced attorney who will fight aggressively for your rights, contact our Buffalo Grove, Illinois meth defense attorney or call 847-239-4703. We offer free initial consultations.