St. Charles, IL Drug Manufacturing Attorney

Skilled Drug Manufacturing Defense Lawyers Representing Clients in St. Charles, Illinois

Drug manufacturing charges are among the most serious drug crimes prosecuted under Illinois law. People who are accused of operating labs where drugs are synthesized or processing large amounts of controlled substances to prepare them for distribution may face more severe penalties than those who are charged with drug possession or small-scale drug distribution. These cases may be investigated and prosecuted by law enforcement officials who are likely to seek harsh penalties. This makes legal representation from an experienced attorney crucial.

At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we have defended clients in more than 20,000 criminal cases since 1986, including multiple types of complex, high-profile drug-related matters. We understand the aggressive tactics that law enforcement often uses during drug manufacturing investigations, and we know how to challenge the prosecution's allegations, determine when evidence may have been obtained illegally, and build strategic defenses to help our clients reduce or defeat drug charges.

When Can a Person Be Charged With Drug Manufacturing in Illinois?

While the term "drug manufacturing" would seem to be limited to the operation of labs where chemicals are mixed to create drugs, the legal definition of this offense includes any act involved in the production of a controlled substance. This may include activities such as:

• Chemically producing a controlled substance such as methamphetamine or MDMA in a lab
• Mixing or compounding drugs with other substances
• Packaging and labeling drugs in preparation for distribution
• Growing psychedelic mushrooms or other plants that can be used in the production of controlled substances

A person does not have to complete the manufacturing process to be charged with drug manufacturing. Possessing the tools, materials, or chemical precursors used to create a drug may be sufficient for a manufacturing charge if there is evidence that a person intended to produce a controlled substance or prepare drugs to be distributed or sold.

Evidence Commonly Used in Drug Manufacturing Cases

Prosecutors build drug manufacturing cases using a variety of evidence that may be collected through lengthy investigations. Search warrants may be executed at homes, garages, sheds, other buildings, or vehicles to seize evidence. Charges of drug manufacturing may be based on evidence such as:

• Chemical precursors or lab equipment, including items like pseudoephedrine, solvents, heating plates, or glassware
• Instructional materials or recipes for manufacturing drugs
• Surveillance footage, phone records, or text messages showing plans to engage in drug manufacturing
• Witness testimony, including statements from confidential informants
• Environmental hazards, such as chemical waste from operating a drug lab

Possession of materials or equipment may support a manufacturing charge, even if no drugs were found during searches by law enforcement. When cases rely on circumstantial evidence, our skilled attorneys can challenge the claims made by prosecutors and demonstrate that there is reasonable doubt about whether our client committed a drug manufacturing offense.

Penalties for Drug Manufacturing in Illinois

For most controlled substances, the same penalties will apply for drug manufacturing as for drug distribution. Manufacturing between one and 15 grams of substances like cocaine, heroin, or LSD will typically be charged as a Class 1 felony, but charges will increase to a Class X felony in cases involving more than 15 grams. Since large amounts of drugs will often be involved in these cases, lengthy sentences will be more likely following a conviction.

In cases involving allegations of methamphetamine manufacturing, the minimum charge is a Class 1 felony, but manufacturing more than 15 grams is a Class X felony. The maximum sentence for this offense is 60 years in prison and a fine of $400,000, which may apply in cases involving at least 900 grams. Possession of precursor chemicals used to manufacture meth may lead to charges ranging from Class 2 felonies to Class X felonies. Aggravated charges and more serious penalties may apply in some cases, including when a child under the age of 18 was present or when a fire or explosion occurred.

Contact Our St. Charles, IL Drug Manufacturing Defense Lawyers

Because of the serious nature of drug manufacturing charges, you need a legal team with the experience and determination to defend your rights. At Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C., we have represented thousands of clients across Illinois, including in complex drug crime cases involving high-profile investigations. We will build a strong defense strategy on your behalf, working to prevent a conviction or reduce the penalties that may apply in your case. Contact our office at 630-786-6062 to arrange your free consultation today.