Methamphetamine Charge Lawyer in Chicago
Methamphetamine charges in Illinois carry some of the harshest criminal penalties in the state. You need a defense strategy that protects your record and your future.
A methamphetamine charge is one of the most serious drug allegations you can face in Illinois. Police and prosecutors dedicate significant resources to these cases, and even a small amount can result in felony charges, mandatory prison time, and a criminal record that stays with you for life.
At Kovacevic Law, we know how overwhelming meth cases can be. With more than a decade defending individuals throughout Chicago and DuPage County, we understand the tactics investigators use and the strategies that win these cases. When you choose us, you work directly with your attorney, receive clear guidance, and get a defense focused on protecting your future.
Whether the allegation involves simple possession, intent to deliver, or any form of manufacturing, we can help you build a strong and effective legal strategy.
Understanding Methamphetamine Laws in Illinois
Illinois created the Methamphetamine Control and Community Protection Act to aggressively target meth-related offenses. Under this law, methamphetamine and any substance containing meth are treated with heightened penalties, and investigations are often conducted by specialized narcotics units.
Possession of Methamphetamine
Possessing any amount of methamphetamine is a felony in Illinois. Penalties increase based on the weight involved:
- Less than 5 grams is a Class 3 felony with 1 to 3 years in prison and fines up to $25,000
- 5 to 15 grams is a Class 2 felony with 3 to 7 years in prison
- 15 to 100 grams is a Class 1 felony with 4 to 15 years in prison
- 100 to 400 grams is a Class X felony with 6 to 30 years in prison and fines up to $100,000
- 400 to 900 grams is a Class X felony with 8 to 40 years in prison and fines up to $200,000
- More than 900 grams is a Class X felony with 10 to 50 years in prison and fines up to $500,000
Once possession crosses 100 grams, the law requires mandatory prison time. Judges cannot sentence below the minimum.
Possession with Intent to Deliver
When officers believe the amount of meth found is more than a person would personally use, they often add intent to deliver charges. You can also face this charge if police claim you attempted to sell, share, or transfer the drug to someone else.
Penalties include:
- Less than 5 grams is a Class 2 felony with 3 to 7 years in prison
- 5 to 15 grams is a Class 1 felony with 4 to 15 years in prison
- 15 to 100 grams is a Class X felony with 6 to 30 years in prison
- 100 to 400 grams is a Class X felony with 9 to 40 years in prison
- 400 to 900 grams is a Class X felony with 12 to 50 years in prison
- More than 900 grams is a Class X felony with 15 to 60 years in prison
Intent to deliver becomes more serious if minors are involved, if weapons or explosives are used, or if the conduct occurs on school grounds.
Manufacturing Methamphetamine
Manufacturing methamphetamine is one of the most heavily punished drug offenses in the state. The law defines manufacturing broadly, covering any part of the creation process, including storing precursors or assembling materials commonly used to produce meth.
Any manufacturing-related charge begins as a Class 1 felony and increases sharply based on the amount involved or the presence of hazardous chemicals.
How Methamphetamine Charges Can Affect Your Life
The consequences extend far beyond prison time and fines. A conviction for a methamphetamine offense can permanently impact:
- Your ability to secure meaningful employment
- Housing opportunities
- Professional licensing and certification
- Gun ownership rights
- Eligibility for government programs
- Parenting and custody rights
- Immigration status, including deportation risk
The long term repercussions can be more damaging than the sentence itself. Protecting your record is critical.
For a free legal consultation with a Criminal Defense lawyer serving the Chicagoland area, call (312) 344-3340.
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Frequently asked questions
Learn more about methamphetamine charges and what options may be available for your defense.
Are all methamphetamine charges felonies in Illinois?
Yes, Illinois treats meth differently from other controlled substances. Every methamphetamine charge starts at the felony level regardless of quantity.
Is probation possible for a meth charge?
It may be possible for smaller quantities or first time offenders. Class X felonies, especially those involving larger amounts, require mandatory prison time.
What if the meth was not mine?
The State must prove you knowingly possessed the drug. If the drugs were found in a shared space or belonged to someone else, lack of knowledge can be a strong defense.
Can evidence be thrown out if police searched me illegally?
Yes, if you were stopped, searched, or questioned without proper legal justification, your attorney can challenge the evidence and seek to suppress it.
Will a meth conviction affect my job or professional license?
Most likely. Many fields in Illinois restrict or revoke licenses for felony drug convictions. Avoiding a conviction is essential to protecting your future career.