This article is being written to conclude and recap my series on the handling of first-time drug charges in Peoria, Illinois. I considered this an important subject as many people will feel overwhelmed when they encounter the criminal justice system for the first time. Some may make the mistake of not taking the matter as seriously as they should. This could result in damage to one’s future. I wrote my recent articles with the goal of providing information which will help people to better understand their situation. It has also been my goal to provide information which will help one in selecting an attorney. If you are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a criminal defense lawyer.
I addressed a number of topics over my recent articles. Issues which I analyzed included the following:
- Misdemeanor vs. felony drug charges
- Search & seizure issues in first-offense drug cases
- Taking a drug charge case to trial
- Sealing a drug-related conviction in Illinois
I addressed these particular topics for a number of reasons. First, the potential for incarceration, and the length of any potential sentence, will be impacted by whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony. Understanding the differences between these levels of offenses is crucial. Second, many drug-related offenses hinge on whether or not law enforcement violated the rights of the accused. If a Fourth Amendment violation did occur then, depending on the facts of the case, it may be possible to gain a dismissal. Third, knowing what to expect from the trial process is important to being prepared. Finally, even if one is convicted, sealing the record afterwards can improve their chances of passing a background check.
An important point I made in each of these articles is that an individual should contact an attorney as soon as possible after they have been arrested. The sooner you contact counsel, then the sooner they can begin to mount a defense on your behalf. As a former prosecutor, I am familiar with the handling of such matters. Contact my office online or by telephone to speak with a Peoria drug charge lawyer. We also serve clients in Bloomington, Decatur, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington and the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford. Additional areas where we handle federal cases include Benton, Chicago, East St. Louis, Springfield, and Urbana.