By Jeff Kennedy
The state of Texas has some of the harshest laws on its books in the country with respect to illicit drugs. When you’ve been busted with drug paraphernalia, you mustn’t make the mistake of thinking tht it’s any less serious than a standard drug charge.
Even minor drug-related charges in Texas can land you in a serious legal predicament. If you’re wondering whether you need a lawyer for drug paraphernalia, keeping the consequences of a conviction in mind should help you decide.
What Is Drug Paraphernalia?
Although a charge for possession of drug paraphernalia can be part of similar drug-related charges, it is also considered a separate charge. If you’re facing drug paraphernalia charges, it’s crucial to reach out to an experienced criminal defense lawyer for help.
According to Texas law, drug paraphernalia is anything that can be used as an instrument or tool for consuming, packaging, or otherwise preparing illicit drugs. Some examples of drug paraphernalia include smoking devices for marijuana, such as bongs, pipes, or bowls.
However, drug paraphernalia doesn’t have to be purpose-built—some regular household items could also be considered contraband in the right context. Some examples include:
- Spoons
- Scales
- Syringes
- Little baggies
- Bottle caps
Even if you aren’t found with drugs in your possession, drug paraphernalia can have traces or residue of the drug that it was used to ingest, allowing law enforcement to connect the paraphernalia to illegal drug use.
What Are the Punishments for Possessing Drug Paraphernalia?
As mentioned above, drug paraphernalia charges are separate—but often complementary—to drug charges. In Texas, there are two levels of drug paraphernalia charges. The lesser charge, for simple possession of drug paraphernalia, is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500.
The higher charge, possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, is a Class A misdemeanor. Although not a felony, a Class A misdemeanor conviction still has the potential to be serious—a convicted offender could spend up to a year in jail.
When You Need a Lawyer for Drug Paraphernalia Charges
Facing criminal charges of any kind should always be treated as a serious situation. Charges involving drug paraphernalia should be seen no different.
The consequences of a conviction on drug-related charges, including paraphernalia, can be long-lasting. Beyond the possibility of incarceration, fines, or probation exists the social and professional stigma of being a convicted criminal.
Friends and family, sadly, may rethink their relationships with you as a result of your conviction. The impact of a conviction can also be fatal for your career, as you may struggle to find gainful employment.
The consequences of a drug-related conviction underscore the importance of contacting an experienced drug-paraphernalia lawyer as soon as possible.
Contact a Fort Worth Drug Paraphernalia Lawyer
Drug paraphernalia charges can be serious, but you are entitled to a legal defense. A drug paraphernalia lawyer with The Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy will fight to clear your name.
Call 817-605-1010 or fill out the form below to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth drug paraphernalia lawyer with our firm today.