Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Help With a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney

The Health and Safety Code section 11364 makes it a crime to possess drug paraphernalia in California. A Los Angeles criminal defense attorney can explain to you that “drug paraphernalia” can include devices like pipes, needles, and any other device that can be used to inject or smoke illegal drugs. If you have been convicted of possessing any of these things, you could face serious penalties.

Proving Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

To be convicted of possession of drug paraphernalia, a prosecutor will generally have to show:

  • Control. It must be shown that you actually possessed the drug paraphernalia, meaning that you had control of it.
  • Knowledge. You must be aware that the device is used for injecting or smoking illegal drugs and also that you have knowledge that you are in possession of it.

A Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can help you examine the evidence against you to defend against both of these elements.

Penalties for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia 

While the crime of possession of drug paraphernalia is covered in the Health and Safety Code and not the Penal Code, you should know that a violation of the Code is considered a misdemeanor and that you could face jail time and a monetary fine. You should also be aware that if you are convicted of this offense you could face non-criminal repercussions as well, like possibly losing your job and getting kicked out of school. For example, a teacher may lose his or her licensure if convicted of the offense.

Related Offenses to Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

A Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can tell you that oftentimes individuals are charged with possession of drug paraphernalia in conjunction with other offenses. For example, you may also be charged with drug possession, drug distribution, and other drug related offenses.

Contact a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have any questions about a drug paraphernalia charge and the possible penalties you face, contact an attorney at Daniel V. Cota & Associates, P.C. by calling 800.351.6860.

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