New Jersey Drug Paraphernalia Lawyer

Possessing drug paraphernalia – a term which is broadly defined under New Jersey law – is illegal in the State of New Jersey.

If you have been charged with possessing drug paraphernalia, you need a criminal defense attorney on your side representing you every step of the way and ensuring that all of your legal and Constitutional rights are protected while your case is pending.

An experienced New Jersey drug paraphernalia lawyer can review all of the facts and circumstances of your individual case, and can represent you in court. If you have been charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, reach out to a qualified drug lawyer who can fight for you.

Defining Drug Paraphernalia

Drug paraphernalia may legally refer to anything that is used to grow, make, use, or store a drug. Some of the most common types of drug paraphernalia used in New Jersey include the following:

Bongs or pipes that are used to smoke marijuana or crack cocaine

Plastic baggies that are used to hold, carry, transport, or distribute drugs

Grinders that are used to crush marijuana

Scales that are used to measure drugs, such as marijuana and cocaine

Equipment that is used to make crystal meth

In order to determine whether or not the alleged paraphernalia is being used for a drug-related purpose, courts will usually examine the following factors:

Whether there is any type of residue or powder on the device

Whether the device could potentially be used for some legal purpose that is not drug- related

Whether there are instructions which shed light on how the device is used

Statements by the defendant and any witnesses

Possible Penalties upon Conviction

Being convicted of possessing drug paraphernalia is serious business, and the potential penalties are equally as serious. A drug paraphernalia charge can result in up to six months’ incarceration, as well as $1,000 in fines, under New Jersey law.

A special pretrial intervention program may be available for first-time offenders and allows the defendant’s charges to be dropped upon successful completion of a drug testing program.

It is also important to note that drug paraphernalia charges are often accompanied by drug possession and/or drug distribution charges. A conviction for drug possession and/or drug distribution can result in additional penalties, including hefty fines and lengthy periods of jail time.

Defenses to Drug Paraphernalia Possession Charges

Possession of drug paraphernalia is a serious charge. However, several potential legal defenses are available to criminal defendants under New Jersey law. The most common defenses to a New Jersey drug paraphernalia charge include the following:

Improper or deficient Miranda warnings

Mistaken identity

Illegal search or seizure of the area where the drug paraphernalia or equipment was found

Lack of probable cause

Improper interrogation techniques used by law enforcement officers

Paraphernalia or equipment not drug-related

Talk to a Drug Paraphernalia Attorney Today

Possession of drug paraphernalia is a serious charge which may result in high fines, jail time, and other serious penalties. 

Depending upon the facts and circumstances of your case, as well as your prior criminal record, a criminal defense attorney may be able to help you obtain a dismissal of your case, a charge reduction, or the opportunity to participate in a pretrial intervention program.

You should feel free to contact an experienced New Jersey drug paraphernalia lawyer as soon as possible for an initial consultation.