Kane County Drug Crimes Lawyer for Marijuana Charges

Criminal Defense Attorney for Cases Involving Cannabis in Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, and DuPage, Kendall, and DeKalb Counties

In recent years, many states have begun enacting new laws surrounding the use, possession, and sale of cannabis.

As of January 1, 2020, Illinois statutes permit the sale and use of cannabis for recreational purposes under specific conditions and restrictions. However, people who possess, use, or sell marijuana could still face criminal charges for violating these new provisions.

At the Law Office of Van A. Larson, P.C., we understand the serious nature of drug charges, and we will work to protect your rights if you have been arrested for crimes related to cannabis or other controlled substances. As a former prosecutor and one of Kane County's first "special conflict" defenders, Van knows the intricacies of these new laws regarding marijuana, and he will vigorously defend those who are facing criminal charges and fight to help you minimize the still serious consequences.

Marijuana Laws in Illinois

Starting on January 1, 2020, Illinois residents over the age of 21 can possess up to 30 grams of cannabis flower, cannabis-infused products with up to 500 milligrams of THC, and up to 5 grams of cannabis concentrate. However, there are a variety of restrictions on when and where marijuana can be used recreationally. Cannabis cannot be smoked or consumed in public places, and a person who drives a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana may face DUI charges.

Possession of amounts of marijuana above the legal limits could result in criminal charges for drug possession. Depending on the amount of the drug, this could be charged as a misdemeanor or felony offense. Only licensed dispensaries are allowed to legally sell marijuana, and while those who are licensed to use medical marijuana can grow up to five marijuana plants, recreational users are not allowed to grow their own marijuana. Selling marijuana or manufacturing cannabis products without a valid license could lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the amount manufactured or sold.

Following the legalization of marijuana, people who had previously been convicted of drug charges may be able to clear their criminal record. Those convicted of possession of less than 30 grams of marijuana may be able to have their case reviewed by the Prisoner Review Board, and they may receive a pardon from the governor, after which their record can be expunged. People convicted of possession of more than 30 grams may also be able to petition for criminal record expungement.

Contact a Kane County Marijuana Charges Attorney

Even after marijuana has been made legal for people to buy and use in Illinois, there are a variety of situations that could result in criminal charges. These cases may involve possession of more than the legal amount of marijuana, claims that a person provided cannabis products to someone under the age of 21, accusations of operating a vehicle while intoxicated by marijuana, or a variety of other offenses.

No matter the nature of the charges you are facing, you need a skilled and experienced attorney who can represent and defend you to help minimize the effects that an arrest may have on your freedom, your record, and your future.

The Law Office of Van A. Larson, P.C. can provide you with the representation you need and deserve. We will advise you of your rights, analyze the facts of our case, and help you understand your best defense strategy. Van can and will vigorously defend you against the charges you are facing at all stages of your case. Contact our office at 630-879-9090 to schedule a free consultation today. We represent clients in Kane, Kendall, DeKalb, and DuPage Counties.