Champaign Defense Attorneys for Marijuana Possession for Lupus
If you have been charged with marijuana possession, you need to call a defense attorney as soon as possible. This can be a frightening experience. You may be wondering about what happens next and whether you are facing heavy fines or jail time.
Choosing a lawyer is a critical decision during this time. When your future and your freedom are on the line, you need to make the right decision. You need someone with decades of experience representing people in Illinois just like you who have been charged with marijuana possession.
Contact Bruno Law Offices today at (217) 328-6000 to speak with one of our Champaign marijuana possession defense attorneys. We are ready to discuss your case with you. Let us help you understand your options so you can make the best decision for your future.
Marijuana and Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects women ages 15 to 44. In fact, about 90 percent of people who suffer from lupus are female. Generally, the word “lupus” is used to refer to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, there are three other types of lupus as well that are less common. Symptoms of lupus usually include inflammation and pain. These most commonly affect a person’s skin, joints, and internal organs. The cause of lupus is still unknown, although it may have a genetic component.
Medical marijuana is not FDA-approved for the treatment of lupus. However, research suggests that medical marijuana may have beneficial impacts on patients who suffer from diseases affecting the immune system, similar to those who suffer from cancer. This includes being helpful in managing symptoms such as inflammation and pain. These are the most common symptoms of lupus. However, there is little research so far specifically about medical marijuana and lupus. The best approach is to start by talking with your doctor before beginning any treatment plan. This can help ensure safe treatment and avoid unfavorable interactions with other medications.
Illinois Marijuana Laws
In 2013, the state of Illinois passed the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Program Act. This made marijuana legally available for the treatment of certain debilitating medical conditions, including lupus. Then in 2020, Illinois passed the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act which legalized marijuana for adult recreational use. There are certain restrictions on the purchase, possession, and use of marijuana in Illinois, including:
- A person must be 21 years of age or older to buy, possess, and use marijuana in any form
- Possession by Illinois residents is restricted to 30 grams of marijuana flower or 5 grams of marijuana concentrate
- Consumption of marijuana is prohibited in public spaces and motor vehicles
- The sale of marijuana by individuals is prohibited, regardless of the amount
- Federal law prohibits travel across state lines with any amount of marijuana
- Medical marijuana patients are permitted to grow up to five plants, as long as they are out of public view and secured so that they are not accessible to anyone under age 21
Even if you have a medical cannabis card, it’s important to be aware of these and other restrictions around marijuana in Illinois, including the laws surrounding possession of drug paraphernalia.
Penalties for Possession in Illinois
Even though Illinois has legalized marijuana for medical and recreational use, a person may still face penalties for possession. These are based on the amount of marijuana and other factors.
Possession of between 30 grams and 100 grams of flower is a misdemeanor charge for the first offense only. Each subsequent offense is a felony charge, as are all charges for amounts greater than 100 grams. Note that non-residents may only possess up to 15 grams of flower.
The corresponding fines and incarceration times apply for adult Illinois residents in possession of marijuana flower:
Between 30 and 100 grams (first offense only)
- Incarceration up to one year
- Fine up to $2,500
Between 100 and 500 grams (also applies to subsequent offenses of 30 to 100 grams)
- Incarceration of one to three years
- Fine up to $25,000
Between 500 grams and 2 kilograms (about 4.4 pounds)
- Incarceration of two to five years
- Fine up to $25,000
Between 2 and 5 kilograms (about 4.4 to 11 pounds)
- Incarceration of three to seven years
- Fine up to $25,000
Greater than 5 kilograms (about 11 pounds)
- Incarceration of four to fifteen years
- Fine up to $25,000
It’s important to note that these penalties apply regardless of a person’s status as a medical cannabis patient. There may also be additional charges and penalties for acts such as sale, cultivation, and delivery on school grounds.
Why Choose Bruno Law Offices?
We understand that this can be a fearful time and you may feel paralyzed about what to do next. We can help. Since 1980, we have been representing Illinois citizens who found themselves in similar situations. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony, we can help you navigate the tricky legal waters ahead.
Bruno Law Offices has a depth of experience fighting criminal charges in Champaign-Urbana and Central Illinois. We prepare each case aggressively to pursue justice for our clients. Our attorneys understand that your family and your livelihood may be at stake. We take this seriously as we seek to preserve your freedom and clear your name.
Our reputation is built on excellence, and our results speak for themselves. We gladly share the testimonials of our previous clients. There is no cost for an initial consultation with Bruno Law Offices.
Contact Us Today
If you are facing a marijuana possession charge, you need to speak with a defense lawyer now. You need a compassionate legal team that you can trust to have your best interests in mind. We have assisted people accused of drug offenses for more than 40 years. We’re proud to say that during that time, we’ve helped them beat their charges or reduce their sentences.
The time after an arrest can feel scary and uncertain. You should not have to worry about what comes next or how you will face this alone. We have provided answers to some of the most frequent questions we receive so you can learn more.
Call (217) 328-6000 today to speak with a member of the Bruno Law Offices legal team about your case. You can also submit a contact form, and we will be in touch as soon as we can. Let us build the strongest case possible for you. Call us now. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.