Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
New Jersey Drug Paraphernalia Possession Attorney
Have you been charged with a possession of drug paraphernalia? If so, you need a skilled and experienced attorney to help you fight these charges.
I am Anthony N. Palumbo and for more than 35 years I have successfully defended clients from all types of drug crimes, including possession of drug paraphernalia. As a former prosecutor, I know how to aggressively defend your interests and protect your rights.
Contact me, a New Jersey drug paraphernalia possession lawyer, to discuss your case. I will help you understand your options in a free initial consultation.
Understanding Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Charges
Drug paraphernalia is broadly defined in New Jersey. It can include anything used to grow, make, test, use or store a drug. Some examples of drug paraphernalia include:
- Plastic baggies or jars for holding drugs
- Pipes for smoking crack
- Equipment for making crystal meth
- Scales to measures drugs such as cocaine
Determining the Use of the Paraphernalia
Items like scales or rolling papers could be used for non-drug related purpose. In the cases where the use is unclear, courts will look at five factors to determine its use, including:
- Statements given by you about the device
- Any instructions that may explain how the device is utilized
- Any other possible uses for the device besides drug intake or storage
- Whether there is any drug residue in the device
- Any other evidence shedding light on the use for the device
Penalties for Conviction
Possession of drug paraphernalia can carry a penalty of up to six months in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. If you hire me as your attorney, I will fight to get you into the Pre-trial Intervention Program (PTI). PTI is a program most often available to first time offenders that allows your charges to be dropped if you complete a drug-testing program.
Charges for possession of drug paraphernalia are often accompanied with charges for possession. Residue from drugs left on paraphernalia can lead to an additional possession charge for the drug. Also, if cops arrest you for possession of a drug, such as heroin, they can tack on a possession of paraphernalia charge simply for having a bag to hold the drug.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Union – Middlesex – Monmouth – Essex County, New Jersey
If you have been arrested for possession of paraphernalia or any other drug charges, contact Anthony N. Palumbo, a criminal defense lawyer in New Jersey.