Penalties for Possession of Marijuana in Illinois

While governor Pat Quinn signed the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act, making the law effective January 1, 2014, this law applies only in particular circumstances. Specifically, patients with any of the 33 qualifying medical conditions must register with the Illinois Department of Public Health to apply the legal status of a medical marijuana patient. For the rest of the population, marijuana possession in Illinois is still prohibited and can result in serious penalties. If you or someone you know has been arrested in Illinois for possession of marijuana, contact an experienced Chicago marijuana possession defense attorney right away.

Under Illinois law, the severity of penalties is based on the amount of the drug on your person at the time of the arrest. Any person who knowingly possesses marijuana – in any measurable amount – is liable for criminal charges, which include:

  • Up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,500 for possession of 2.5 grams or less (Class C Misdemeanor)
  • Up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,500 for possession of more than 2.5 grams up to 10 grams (Class B Misdemeanor)
  • Up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500 for possession of more than 10 grams but less than 30 grams (Class A Misdemeanor)
  • Between one to three years in a state prison and/or up to $25,000 fine for possession of between 30 grams and 500 grams (Class 4 Felony)
  • Between two to five years in state prison and/or up to a $25,000 fine for possession of over 500 grams but less than 2,000 grams (Class 3 Felony)
  • Between three to seven years in state prison and/or up to a $25,000 fine for possession of more than 2,000 grams but less than 5,000 grams (Class 4 Felony)
  • Between four to 15 years in state prison and/or up to a $25,000 fine for possession of more than 5,000 grams (Class 1 Felony)

Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney

If you or someone you know has been charged with possession of marijuana, or any other type of drug possession charge, contact a knowledgeable and aggressive Chicago marijuana possession defense attorney today. The defense of a drug possession charge can be complicated as a conviction can have long-lasting consequences. Attorney Steven Goldman has decades of experience successfully defending clients in criminal cases. To schedule your initial consultation, contact (773) 484-3131 today.

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