Best Drug Possession Lawyers in Chicago
Aaron Rosenblatt
Criminal Lawyer/Drug Possession Lawyer
Aaron S. Rosenblatt is an experienced attorney that has been an attorney since 2008. In his years practicing law, he has represented countless people in a wide variety of cases, including domestic battery, unlawful use of weapons, murder, retail theft, and DUI. After graduating from John Marshall Law School, he began his career practicing civil law. Since entering the field of criminal defense in 2011, he has become a familiar face in both state and federal courtrooms alike.
I have represented countless individuals charged with manufacturing or delivery of a controlled substance. For those charged with this offense the State of Illinois is alleging that the accused, the defendant, either manufactured a controlled substance or sold a controlled substance. The majority of these cases are brought to court after the police witness a person in an exchange they believe involves a drug deal. Most of the time, the police witness a drug deal because they are undercover acting as a person looking to buy drugs. Usually, the way this is done is that the police put together a team. The team is broken up into three sections. The sections are observation officers, buy officers and enforcement or “take down” officers. The observation officers usually set themselves up in one spot. They usually have binoculars. They set up surveillance on a person they suspect is selling drugs. The buy officer is an officer who is working undercover. He will put on a disguise and look exactly like any other person who wants to buy drugs, generally heroin or cocaine. The buy officer is usually in a car and and they will pull up to the suspect and have a conversation. The buy officer’s think they are very slick. They are equipped with a whole arsenal of slogans that they believe mean they are looking for drugs. For example, in one case the officer approached my clients and asked for “blows.” “Blows” is a street term for heroin. The buy officer will also have cash on them called prerecorded 505 funds. The 505 funds is money where the serial number on the bills has been written down. The purpose of this is to help identify the person who sold the drugs. When a person is arrested and the 505 funds are on them, the State’s Attorney will use that information to argue that they are the same person who sold the drugs. Next, the undercover officer will exit his car and then buy the drugs from the suspect. Generally, after that the transaction, the officer will get back in their car, leave the area and then call the observation officer to say that they just bought drugs from the suspect. After that, the observation officer with call to the take down or enforcement officers, give them a description of the suspect and the direction the suspect is headed. Then the enforcement officers will locate the person they believe is the suspect and arrest them. Finally, the buy officer will be required to identify the person in police custody at the person who sold them the controlled substance.
GBENGA LONGE
Criminal Lawyer/Drug Possession Lawyer
As a former prosecutor, Gbenga Longe has an extensive background in criminal law and knows how to get results. Throughout her legal career, Gbenga has prosecuted hundreds of DUI and criminal cases in Chicago as well as the surrounding suburbs, and she carries an inside knowledge to winning cases. Gbenga is highly skilled in advocating for her clients and she will carefully analyze her client’s cases to determine the best course of action.
Upon graduating from the Indiana University School of Law- Indianapolis in 2010, Gbenga was appointed as an Assistant State’s Attorney with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, the second largest prosecuting agency in the country. During her tenure as a prosecutor, Gbenga prosecuted hundreds of criminal cases at various levels, many of which were high profile in nature. Gbenga successfully navigated hundreds of cases through jury trials, motions, and hearings. She handled a wide-ranging caseload of felony and misdemeanor cases including financial crimes, DUI and traffic violations, drug offenses, sex offenses, theft, and other violent crimes.
Gbenga’s vast experience as a courtroom prosecutor has made her highly skilled in trial technique and knowledgeable in the rules of evidence. Her aggressive courtroom style has led to many favorable outcomes and she continues to achieve desired results for her clients.
If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with a crime, make sure that your rights are protected and that you have the best attorney working for you. Contact the Longe Law Firm today and have an experienced attorney evaluate your case.
Robert J. Callahan
Criminal Lawyer/Drug Possession Lawyer
Robert J. Callahan clients find a proven criminal defense attorney based in Chicago, IL with close to two decades of experience. Defense Attorney Robert Callahan has developed a reputation for success in the niche criminal law area of narcotics defense-related litigation. Our law firm also aggressively combats a full array of other criminal charges
We maintain an ongoing list of case victories on our website. So far in 2012, we have won several cases each month. Why is our law firm so successful? We believe it is due to Mr. Callahan’s extensive preparation, close attention and thorough investigation in each and every case.
Our investigative approach reveals the underlying facts of a case, aiding us in discerning potential fabrications and misconceptions in the prosecution’s evidence or in witness testimonies during cross-examination. We also take pride in maintaining an active understanding of the courtroom that takes into account not only the prosecutorial strategy but also the unique individuals involved in the prosecution.
Purav Bhatt
Criminal Lawyer/Drug Possession Lawyer
The Law Office of Purav Bhatt is a premier criminal defense law firm located in Chicago, IL. We are committed to providing our clients with highly effective, strategic legal representation in order to achieve the best possible outcome in their cases. We tailor our defense strategies to meet the needs of our clients and fight aggressively to protect their rights and interests.
With over a decade of experience, our compassionate criminal lawyer has represented numerous clients with unique cases and has managed to get favorable results even in the most complex cases involving serious criminal offenses. When you are facing criminal charges and going through a difficult time, you can count on The Law Office of Purav Bhatt to not only fight for you with a winning legal strategy, but to also be an ally who will guide, support, and stand by you every step of the way.
A Criminal Defense Lawyer You Can Trust
Our founder, Purav Bhatt, is a Chicago native who believes that anyone who is charged with a crime deserves a robust defense and must be able to tell their side of the story.
He is a former Cook County State’s Attorney and has been an integral part of the state’s criminal justice system for decades. During his time as a prosecuting attorney, Mr. Bhatt handled a wide range of cases – from aggravated criminal sexual assault to drug crimes. He knows how law enforcement officials like police officers, detectives, prosecutors, and judges work in Cook County. He now applies his prosecutorial knowledge and legal expertise to defend individuals who are facing criminal charges.
A highly skilled criminal defense attorney, Purav Bhatt is licensed to practice in state and federal courts. He is known for his principled and uncompromising approach toward providing legal counsel and presenting an aggressive criminal defense.
Purav Bhatt is also an Adjunct Professor at The John Marshall Law School at the University of Illinois-Chicago. When he is not practicing criminal law and fighting for his clients, Mr. Bhatt spends his time training future attorneys and educating them on trial preparation and practice. Under his guidance, our team at The Law Office of Purav Bhatt has the dedication, experience, and expertise to fight for you.
DAVID L. FREIDBERG
Criminal Lawyer/Drug Possession Lawyer
Mr. Freidberg’s more than 20 years of legal experience will prove invaluable as he works in tandem with clients to get the best possible results. Mr. Freidberg is familiar with Chicago court procedures, Chicago prosecutors and Chicago judges and is often able to have cases dismissed because he can find the loopholes inherent in the law and use those to dismantle the prosecution’s case. Mr. Freidberg is an expert at understanding legal technicalities and demonstrating to Chicago judges that evidence against his clients may not be used in Court.
His relationships with Chicago prosecutors also help him broker deals. Mr. Freidberg can negotiate for his client’s case to be dismissed, sealed, or have the charges reduced so that accordingly his client receives a lesser sentence. When defendants represent themselves, they do so without that history of amicable relations Mr. Freidberg has with other Chicago lawyers, and are therefore less likely to receive the type of favorable outcome Mr. Freidberg’s services warrant.
A Balance of Objectivity and Compassion
As a Chicago criminal defense lawyer, Mr. Freidberg has stood at the helm of a myriad of criminal defense cases, and can knowledgeably opine on likely outcomes should a defendant’s case go to trial. This objective perspective is critical for defendants who are trying to decide whether to accept a prosecutor’s plea bargain or determine what their chances are of convincing a jury to return a verdict of not guilty if they decide to move forward with a jury trial. At the same time, Mr. Freidberg is understanding of the fear, embarrassment and enormous stress his clients are facing because of their criminal charges, and is experienced with helping defendants cope with these feelings to focus on achieving a successful outcome.
Early Intervention Key to Success
Mr. Freidberg prides himself on his proactive approach. Early intervention allows his firm more time to conduct investigations, interview witnesses and exhaust all legal options.
Mr. Freidberg believes being proactive in a criminal case can make the difference between a defendant facing misdemeanor or felony charges and a defendant not facing any charges at all. If you have already been arrested, depending on your specific circumstances, Mr. Freidberg can provide assistance with reducing your bond and helping you get out of jail. He may also be able to provide help in reducing penalties, fines, jail time, probation terms and even request alternatives to probation, as well as petition to clear your record.
STEVE KLEIN
Criminal Lawyer/Drug Possession Lawyer
Attorney Steve Klein focuses his law practice in the field of criminal defense. Mr. Klein concentrates in DUI cases, traffic offenses, drug possession, theft, domestic battery, driving on a suspended license, probation or supervision violations, and all types of felonies. He has litigated countless cases, and is an active participant in all aspects of the litigation process. Mr. Klein has familiarity with the criminal court system and has experience performing summary suspension hearings, briefing and arguing substantive motions, negotiating plea bargains, suppressing evidence, and winning many bench trials and jury trials. Throughout the last ten years, he’s honed his skills in conducting jury selection, perform opening statements, direct examinations, cross-examinations of expert and lay witnesses, and making persuasive closing arguments.
Ever since Steve Klein has been working in the legal profession, he has devoted himself to the area of criminal law. After graduating from the University of Southern California with B.A. in Psychology, Steve immediately attended the John Marshall Law School in Chicago. Even before Steve began law school, he worked as a clerk at the Cook County State’s Attorney Office in Chicago. He used his psychology degree to organize evidence for Dr. Park Dietz, the State’s top psychological expert in the death penalty case of People of the State of Illinois v. Paul Runge.
After working with the State’s Attorney for three years, Steve changed his mind on where he should place his allegiance. While working with the Cook County State’s Attorney, he was continually drawn to the opposing defense attorney’s creativity and the relationships they formed with their clients. The next year, Steve switched sides and worked at the Cook County Public Defender during his final year at John Marshall. At the Public Defender, Steve excelled in the Felony Trial Division and Homicide Task Force.
As an attorney, Steve received police training in Standardized Field Sobriety Tests and earned a certificate from the National Highway Traffic Administration in the administration of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. He has also attended numerous seminars about the recent advances in DUI laws, local ordinance law, BAIID (Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlocking Devices) law, SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor), Drug Court, Mental Illness diversion programs, advanced trial tactics, and jury selection. Steve is an active member of the Illinois State Bar Association, the National College for DUI Defense, the National Advocacy for DUI Defense, the Chicago Bar Association, the DuPage County Bar Association, the DuPage County Criminal Defense Association, the National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys and the National Trial Lawyers Association. Steve has also been awarded the Super Lawyers: Rising Star Award from 2012 – 2015. Although Steve has defended thousands of DUI and traffic cases, he is always anxious to accept a variety of different criminal cases and loves the challenge a new case brings. Some of the other cases he has worked on include batteries, unlawful consumption of alcohol by a minor, domestic batteries, felony drug possession and delivery, aggravated assault, aggravated robbery, theft, unlawful use of a weapon, predatory criminal sexual assault, forgery, disorderly conduct, telephone harassment, obstructing justice, and resisting/obstructing a peace officer.
Jonathan D Feldman
Criminal Lawyer/Drug Possession Lawyer
My “clients-first” philosophy means that I will always be there when you need me. It means that I will handle your case personally, giving it the care and attention it deserves. It means that when you have questions or concerns, no matter what time of the day or night, you can contact me and I will be ready to discuss them. I will get you through this.
Areas of Practice
- Criminal Law
- DUI/DWI
- Traffic Violations
- Drug Charges
- Drug Possession
- Felony Drug Distribution & Delivery
- Property Crimes
- Theft/Shoplifting
- Weapons Crimes
- Violent Crimes
Education
- John Marshall Law School
- J.D.
Representative Cases
- Retail Theft
- Narcotics
- Felony Traffic
- Traffic
- Cell Phone Harassment
- Civil Rights
- False Reporting
Honors And Awards
- Moot Court Honors Society, Award Winner, Dean Fred Herzog Moot Court Competition
Professional Associations And Memberships
- Chicago Bar Association, Member
- Illinois State Bar Association, Member
Busted for Possession? A Guide to Navigating Drug Charges and the Power of Legal Advocacy
Getting caught with drugs can feel like your world is crumbling. The fear, confusion, and potential legal ramifications can be overwhelming. But before you resign yourself to the worst, take a deep breath. You have options, and one of the most critical is securing the support of a skilled lawyer. This comprehensive guide explores the complexities of drug possession charges and the undeniable power a top-notch legal advocate can bring to your case.
Understanding the Terrain: A Look at Drug Possession Offenses
Drug possession charges vary across the United States, with penalties depending on the type and quantity of the controlled substance involved. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Simple Possession: This refers to having a small amount of an illegal drug on your person. Penalties can range from fines and community service to probation or even jail time, depending on the severity.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID): This charge goes beyond simple possession and suggests the intent to sell or distribute the drugs. Penalties for PWID are typically much harsher than simple possession and can lead to significant prison sentences.
- Schedule of Controlled Substances: Drugs are categorized into schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. Schedule I and II drugs (heroin, cocaine, LSD) carry the most severe penalties, while Schedule V drugs (low-dose marijuana) may have less stringent consequences. You can find a complete schedule of controlled substances on the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Beyond the Charges: The Ripple Effect of Drug Possession
A drug possession conviction can have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate penalties:
- Employment: A criminal record can make it difficult to secure employment, particularly in certain fields that require background checks.
- Professional Licensing: Professional licenses can be suspended or revoked due to a drug conviction.
- Housing: Finding housing can be challenging with a criminal record, as some landlords conduct background checks.
- Student Loans: Federal financial aid for education may be jeopardized by a drug conviction.
- Firearm Rights: Drug convictions can restrict your ability to own or purchase firearms.
Facing the System: Why a Skilled Lawyer is Your Best Ally
The legal system can be complex and intimidating, especially when facing drug charges. Here’s where a skilled lawyer becomes invaluable:
- Understanding the Law: Drug laws can be intricate, with varying interpretations and potential defenses. A lawyer with experience in your jurisdiction can analyze your case and identify relevant legal arguments.
- Building a Strong Defense: A lawyer will meticulously examine the circumstances of your arrest, police procedures, and any potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. This could involve challenging illegal search and seizure procedures, questioning the validity of field sobriety tests, or exploring alibis or entrapment possibilities.
- Negotiation and Advocacy: Many drug possession cases are resolved through skilled negotiation. A lawyer can advocate for you with the prosecutor, aiming for reduced charges, diversion programs, or dismissal of the case entirely. They can leverage weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and negotiate for the best possible outcome.
- Suppression of Evidence: If your arrest involved unlawful search and seizure procedures, your lawyer can fight to have the evidence excluded from court, potentially weakening the prosecution’s case significantly.
- Trial Experience: While most cases are resolved through negotiation, an experienced lawyer with a proven track record in drug possession trials can effectively represent you in court if necessary. They will be familiar with courtroom procedures and how to present your case persuasively.
- Understanding Sentencing Options: Your lawyer can explain your sentencing options and explore alternatives to incarceration, such as drug rehabilitation programs or probation. They can also help you navigate the process of applying for these alternatives.
- Minimizing Collateral Consequences: A skilled lawyer can work to minimize the long-term impact of a drug possession charge, such as exploring options for expungement or record sealing (availability depends on specific circumstances).
- Emotional Support and Guidance: Facing drug charges can be emotionally draining. Your lawyer can provide invaluable support and guidance throughout the legal process, helping you navigate the complexities and advocating for your best interests.
Finding the Right Advocate: Resources for Legal Support
- Seek Recommendations: Talk to friends, family, or colleagues who have faced legal issues and inquire about their lawyers.
- State Bar Association: Contact your state’s bar association for referrals to qualified criminal defense attorneys specializing in drug possession charges. Many state bar associations have lawyer referral services available.