Marijuana/Cannabis

While Illinois has relaxed some cannabis laws in recent years, marijuana charges remain serious criminal offenses in many situations. Even small amounts can lead to lasting consequences on your record, and larger amounts carry the possibility of felony convictions, heavy fines, and years in prison.

At Harter & Schottland, we defend clients against all types of cannabis-related charges. Our goal is simple: to protect your freedom, your record, and your future.

Illinois Cannabis Laws and Penalties

Cannabis possession laws in Illinois vary by weight and prior history:

• Less than 10 grams: Civil offense or ordinance violation
• 10–30 grams: Class B misdemeanor – up to 6 months in jail, $1,500 fine
• 30–100 grams: Class A misdemeanor (first offense) or Class 4 felony (subsequent) – up to 1–3 years in prison, $25,000 fine
• 100–500 grams: Class 3 felony – 2–5 years in prison, $25,000 fine
• 500–2,000 grams: Class 2 felony – 3–7 years in prison, $25,000 fine
• 2,000–5,000 grams: Class 1 felony – 4–15 years in prison, $25,000 fine
• More than 5,000 grams: Class X felony – 6–30 years in prison, $25,000 fine

While decriminalization covers small amounts, felony charges for larger quantities remain aggressively prosecuted.

How We Defend Cannabis Cases

The first line of defense in any marijuana case is often challenging unlawful searches and seizures. Police cannot search your property or seize evidence without proper authority, and violations of your constitutional rights can result in evidence being excluded.

Our defense strategies may include:

• Suppressing illegally obtained evidence
• Challenging possession claims (proving knowledge and control)
• Disputing the weight or testing of the substance
• Highlighting lack of intent in alleged distribution cases

Why Choose Harter & Schottland?

Our attorneys have extensive experience defending cannabis charges, from misdemeanors to high-level felonies. We don’t just negotiate for lighter sentences—we fight to win your case outright whenever possible.

We:

• Investigate every detail of your case
• Interview witnesses and examine police procedures
• File motions to dismiss or reduce charges
• Prepare aggressively for trial when necessary

We have a proven history of suppressing evidence, reducing charges, and winning acquittals in cannabis and drug-related cases.

Free Case Evaluation

If you are facing cannabis possession, cultivation, or distribution charges in Illinois, don’t risk your future. Contact Harter & Schottland today for a free consultation.

With offices in Round Lake Beach, Waukegan, and Woodstock, we represent clients throughout Lake County and Northern Illinois.

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