Schedule III, IV, and V Drugs Lawyer in Chicago

If you have been arrested for a drug offense involving a Schedule III, Schedule IV, or Schedule V substance in the Chicagoland area or DuPage County, you need a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Even though these drugs are considered less dangerous than Schedule I or II substances, unlawful possession, distribution, or trafficking can still result in felony charges, high fines, and long term consequences.

At Kovacevic Law, we help clients navigate complex drug cases involving prescription medications, controlled substances with medical uses, and any lower schedule drugs regulated under the Illinois Controlled Substances Act. We fight to protect your record, your rights, and your future.

Understanding Schedule III, IV, and V Drug Classifications

Illinois categorizes drugs by schedule based on medical use, potential for abuse, and risk of dependence. Schedule III, Schedule IV, and Schedule V substances are distinct because they have accepted medical purposes. Many can be legally obtained with a valid prescription, but possession without authorization is still a criminal offense.

Key points:

• These schedules cover many common prescription medications
• Illegal possession can lead to felony charges
• The degree of punishment depends on drug schedule, amount, and other aggravating factors

Schedule III Controlled Substances

Schedule III substances have accepted medical uses but pose a risk of psychological or physical dependence. Their abuse potential is lower than Schedule I or II drugs but still significant.

Some common Schedule III substances include:

• Codeine
• Suboxone (buprenorphine)
• Didrex (benzphetamine)
• Phendimetrazine
• Ketamine
• Depo Testosterone and other anabolic steroids

Possession of Schedule III drugs without a valid prescription can result in criminal charges and long term consequences.

Schedule IV Controlled Substances

Schedule IV drugs have a lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule III. Many are widely prescribed medications, but unauthorized possession or distribution remains illegal.

Examples of Schedule IV drugs include:

• Xanax
• Klonopin
• Valium
• Ativan
• Restoril
• Soma
• Versed
• Halcion

These medications are legal only when obtained through a lawful prescription. Any other possession is a criminal offense.

Schedule V Controlled Substances

Schedule V drugs have the lowest abuse potential and are often mixtures that contain limited amounts of narcotics. These substances still require authorization and are regulated under Illinois law.

Examples include:

• Preparations containing up to 200 milligrams of codeine per 100 milliliters
• Preparations containing up to 200 milligrams of opium per 100 grams
• Ezogabine

Although these substances are less restricted than higher schedules, unlawful possession can still result in felony charges.

Penalties for Schedule III, IV, and V Drug Crimes

Possession, distribution, or trafficking of Schedule III, IV, or V controlled substances without authorization typically results in Class 4 felony charges, carrying:

• One to three years in prison
• Significant fines
• Possible mandatory probation conditions

Aggravating factors can increase penalties, including:

• Possession within 1,000 feet of a school or protected zone
• Possession while unlawfully carrying a firearm
• Large quantities suggesting intent to deliver

If you are found with more drugs than what is considered personal use, prosecutors may pursue possession with intent to deliver, which can range from a Class 3 felony to a Class X felony depending on the drug and amount.

A conviction can also include:

• Fines up to $100,000
• Probation or supervised release
• Community service
• Mandatory drug treatment
• Boot camp programs in some cases

These consequences impact housing, employment, licensing, immigration status, and your criminal record.