Criminal Defense for White-Collar Professionals Facing Drug Charges

 Posted on October 07, 2025 in White Collar Crimes

If you work a white-collar job, an accusation involving a drug crime could have serious ramifications for your future. Depending on the offense, you could end up facing years or even decades behind bars if you are convicted. Knowing the potential risks, seeking out legal representation is paramount for protecting your rights.

At The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C., our Lake County criminal defense lawyer represents white-collar professionals facing drug charges. In prior case results, he has negotiated for favorable verdicts for people accused of felony drug charges, including successful dismissals.

How a Drug Charge Can Affect Your Professional Reputation

A conviction of drug possession or distribution can have immediate consequences for your career. The record of the conviction will appear on any background checks run by your employer, and since Illinois is an at-will employment state, a discovery of a misdemeanor or felony drug conviction could result in your termination.

Additionally, if you hold a professional license, it could be jeopardized by a conviction of a drug crime. These crimes are taken seriously by licensing boards, and a conviction could result in disciplinary action being taken against you. Our firm can help you contest the underlying charge to mitigate the damage as much as possible.

The Difference Between Drug Possession and Distribution Charges

It may come as a surprise to learn that there is a major difference in how drug possession and drug distribution are prosecuted. While penalties for these charges vary depending on the type of drug and quantity, drug distribution is generally treated as a more serious charge compared to mere possession.

Differentiating between the two crimes can get complicated if you are accused of "possession with intent to deliver" (720 ILCS 570/401). Law enforcement officers could charge you with intent to deliver if they find a large stash of drugs, even if you claim they were strictly for personal use.

How Can I Defend Against Drug Charges?

When you are accused of a drug crime as a white-collar professional, the right defense could make all the difference when you are faced with the loss of your job and strict criminal penalties. With that in mind, it is important that you work closely with a knowledgeable defense lawyer who can help you strategize against the prosecution’s argument.

One possible defense to a drug charge is challenging constructive possession. If the drugs were not found on your person, the prosecutor needs to prove that you had control and dominion over the substance. For example, if cocaine was found at a party in your home, your attorney might be able to argue that you were not aware of the drug and had no intention of using it for criminal purposes. 

Meet With a Gurnee, IL Drug Crime Defense Lawyer

At The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C., we understand just how much is at stake for white-collar professionals accused of drug offenses. Our Lake County, IL drug crime defense attorney can discuss your options with you and pursue a strong defense, keeping your future in mind. To schedule a free consultation, call our offices at 847-239-4703 today.