How Marijuana Charges Work in Illinois Now

 Posted on November 07, 2022 in Drugs and Narcotics

Illinois legalized marijuana in 2020, and adults over 21 years of age are able to legally possess, consume, and purchase cannabis in the state. However, it must be consumed on private property or properties with on-premises consumption licenses.  Public consumption is still illegal in Chicago. It is also illegal for people to consume cannabis in any vehicle or operate a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis. Cannabis may be transported in a vehicle but it cannot be accessible by any occupant of the vehicle during transportation and must be in a child-resistant container. Cannabis purchased in Illinois cannot be transported to another state.

Marijuana can be purchased at licensed dispensaries, but the possession limitations include 30 grams for Illinois residents and 15 grams for non-residents. The limitations for cannabis-infused products are 500 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) for Illinois residents and 250 milligrams of THC for non-residents.

If you were charged with a criminal offense related to marijuana, contact a drug crime criminal defense lawyer for help. 

Illinois Marijuana Laws and Penalties

While Illinois has legalized marijuana possession offenses involving less than 30 grams of marijuana, criminal charges remain possible in cases of 30 grams or more. A first offense for marijuana possession is a misdemeanor, but a subsequent offense or any offense involving 100 grams or more of marijuana will be a felony. Although it has been legalized for recreational use, it is still possible to face jail time for possession, cultivation, or delivery of marijuana in Illinois. It is not uncommon for some people who are found to be in possession of marijuana in motor vehicles then also face driving under the influence (DUI) of marijuana charges relating to the same arrest.

Drug charges have the potential to threaten your very freedom, so it is crucial to contact a criminal defense lawyer and get started on a defense strategy right away. 

Contact a Cook County Marijuana Possession Attorney

Many people who are facing marijuana charges did not intend to break the law, and these same individuals could have a number of possible defenses in their cases. Make sure you speak to the Chicago marijuana possession defense lawyers at Luisi Legal Group can aggressively defend you in court. 

Our firm has previous experience that includes helping thousands of people facing all kinds of drug charges in Illinois. Feel free to call 773-276-5541 or contact us online so you can schedule a free initial consultation. 

Sources: 

https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/cannabis-information-center/home/social-consumption.html

https://khqa.com/news/local/some-illinois-marijuana-convictions-are-eligible-for-expungement

https://ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=072005500K4