possession

December 7, 2018

The Penalties for Gun Possession in Chicago

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

The state of Illinois has some of the harshest penalties for weapon violations in the country. However, if you possess a valid FOID (Firearm Owner’s Identification) card, you are allowed to own a gun. It is important to keep in mind that having a FOID card does not mean you are legally permitted to carry a gun with you at all times.

Unless your gun is in an appropriate case, in a condition where it can not be fired, and you are on your way to the firing range or moving, it is best not to carry a gun, especially in Chicago. To do so, you will need a concealed carry permit, and even then there are circumstances and locations in which you are not allowed to bring a weapon.

If you are facing weapons charges, contact a gun crime defense lawyer to help you with your case.

December 23, 2015

Are You Being Charged with Possession or Delivery of Ecstasy in Chicago?

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Ecstasy, increasingly referred to as Molly, is the street name for the drug MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine). Whatever you call it, Ecstasy is a synthetic and psychoactive drug, with similarities to stimulants like amphetamine and with similarities to hallucinogens, like mescaline. Those who take it report experiencing euphoria, increased energy, warmth and empathy to others, and distorted time and sensory perception.

It is against the law in Illinois to be in possession of any amount of Ecstasy, as it has a high potential for abuse with no accepted medical use in Illinois, so it is classified as a Schedule 1 drug. Criminal penalties for the possession of Ecstasy are governed by the Illinois Controlled Substances Act, but possessing any amount of ecstasy at all is a felony.

Penalties for Possession of Ecstasy

October 16, 2015

Changing Marijuana Laws in Illinois

by Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, P.C.

Throughout the United States, a remarkable change of heart and mind about the use of marijuana is in progress, and Illinois has joined in, albeit with some resistance. There are currently 38 states with some type of medical marijuana program, 16 states that have decriminalized smaller amounts of marijuana possession, and two states that have legalized the recreational use of cannabis.

In 2016, two more states will legalize recreational marijuana, and Illinois is poised to join the 16 other states that have decriminalized small amounts of marijuana. As it now stands, however, marijuana possession remains a crime in the state of Illinois (even though the City of Chicago decriminalized marijuana on its own in 2012 and moved to a ticketing system). While the marijuana laws will most likely change in the near future, you still should be aware of the current laws governing possession of cannabis.

Marijuana Laws in Illinois