Definition

Noun: - The act or state of having, holding, or controlling a substance or item that is prohibited by law: Specifically, this term most commonly refers to the crime of having controlled substances, such as drugs, without legal authorization.

Usage

This term is used in legal and law enforcement contexts to describe a criminal offense. It is a formal charge. - The primary charge against him was illegal possession of narcotics. - Illegal possession of firearms is a serious crime in this jurisdiction.

Examples

• The police arrested the suspect for illegal possession of methamphetamine.
• Laws regarding the illegal possession of prescription medications are strictly enforced.
• She faced a fine for the illegal possession of the endangered animal species.

Advanced Usage

• "Illegal possession with intent to distribute": A more severe charge indicating that the possessed substances were meant for sale or distribution, not just personal use.
• "Constructive illegal possession": A legal doctrine where a person can be charged with possession even if the item is not on their physical person, if they have knowledge of and control over it (e.g., drugs in a house they own).

Variants and Related Words

• Possession (n): The general state of owning or having something. "Illegal possession" is a specific type of possession.
• Contraband (n): Goods that are illegal to possess or trade.
• Illegal (adj): Forbidden by law.

Synonyms

• Unlawful possession
• Criminal possession

Related Phrases

• Possession of a controlled substance: The most common specific phrase synonymous with "illegal possession" in legal statutes.
• Drug possession: A common, less formal term for illegal possession of narcotics.

Noun

1. possession of controlled substances