What are Illinois Laws on Marijuana Possession?
Although seemingly stringent, Illinois’ laws have provisions that enable first time offenders to get off relatively easily. Although the punishments for possessing under 30 grams of Marijuana (a misdemeanor) range from 30 days to a year in jail, a judge can grant a 24-month probation in lieu of jail time, after which the charges will be dismissed. However, after the first offense (or for any possession of more than 30 grams), the penalties swiftly become severe. Any possession of greater than 30 grams is considered a felony, and is punishable by at least 1 -3 years in prison (for a first offense). Subsequent punishments are by weight and are as follows: • Second offense of 30 – 500 grams: 2 – 5 years in prison • Possession of 500 – 2000 grams: 2 – 5 years in prison • Possession of 2000 – 5000 grams: 3 – 7 years in prison • Possession of 5000+ grams: 4 – 15 years in prison In addition, possession of any amount of marijuana over 30 grams will automatically levy a $25,000 fine.
