Possession of paraphernalia is a criminal offense that occurs when a person possesses equipment, products, or materials that may be used when taking, making, or concealing unlawful controlled substances like marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamines.  When a person has drug paraphernalia on his/her body, he/she can be arrested for and later charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, which is usually considered a misdemeanor drug offense.

Drug paraphernalia is typically categorized as either “user paraphernalia” or “dealer paraphernalia”.  User paraphernalia generally consists of things such as pipes, rolling papers, or containers that help conceal the narcotic from public view.  Dealer paraphernalia consists of things like scales, drug containers, baggies, or vials which help dealers weigh, conceal, and ultimately sell the narcotics in their possession. 

Possession of Paraphernalia – Criminal Charges

When a person is arrested for possession of paraphernalia, he/she may be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony drug offense.  The severity and classification of the drug offense will depend upon:

• if the person possessed user paraphernalia
• if the person possessed dealer paraphernalia
• if the person possessed an unlawful controlled substance
• the type of drug possessed
• the amount of drug possessed
• the person’s criminal background
• if the person has had prior drug crime convictions

After a person has been charged with possession of paraphernalia, he/she may face serious legal consequences such as jail time, fines, community service, and probation if he/she is convicted in the California courts.  These legal consequences can be difficult to tolerate, but may possibly be avoided if the person hires the right drug defense lawyer. 

Los Angeles & San Fernando Valley Possession of Paraphernalia Defense Law Firm

If you have been charged with possession of drug paraphernalia in the San Fernando Valley or Los Angeles areas, do not hesitate to contact the reputable drug crime defense attorneys at the Hedding Law Firm.  The Hedding Law Firm is comprised of well-trained, compassionate lawyers who are extremely familiar with California drug laws.  At the Hedding Law Firm, our attorneys can help you from the very onset of your criminal charges by providing you with reliable counsel and thorough representation you deserve.