Drug Paraphernalia Charges
Possession of drug paraphernalia is a common charge brought by police against individuals in Ocean County and Monmouth County, New Jersey. Often times, an arrest for drug possession is also coupled with a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. If you have been charged with either drug possession or drug paraphernalia possession, you need an experienced New Jersey Drug Paraphernalia Lawyer to discuss your case and represent you in court.
What is Drug Paraphernalia?
Under New Jersey law, drug paraphernalia refers to any equipment used to produce, conceal, and/or consume illegal drugs. That is a broad definition, and includes such things as:
- Rolling papers marked with marijuana residue
- Glass pipes with smoke stains
- Hypodermic needles
- Bongs
- Roach Clips
- Vials
- Plastic baggies
- Syringes
A common scenario is where an individual is driving home from a house party or the beach shortly after smoking a joint and is stopped by police for a traffic violation. The police officer conducting the traffic stop smells the evidence of recent marijuana use, and the individual unwisely agrees to the police officer’s request to search his vehicle. Searching the vehicle, the police officer discovers some sort of drug paraphernalia, frequently rolling papers or a roach clip. The police officer arrests the individual and charges him or her with possession of drug paraphernalia. Has something similar happened to you? If so, you need to call the experienced NJ Drug Paraphernalia Lawyer t at Villani & DeLuca, P.C. at 732-965-3350 for a free consultation about your charge.
The Consequences of a Drug Paraphernalia Charge are Serious
A charge of possession of drug paraphernalia is no laughing matter, as it can have serious consequences for your future; especially where you have also been charged with possession of illegal drugs. For example, if you are either employed or intend on becoming employed as a teacher or within a public school system in regular contact with students, a conviction for possession of drug paraphernalia will result in your inability to obtain or retain employment as this charge is a “disqualifying” offense barring an individual from employment within a public school system.
Depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, and other considerations, you may be eligible to receive a conditional discharge for your possession of drug paraphernalia charge. A conditional discharge keeps you out of jail, but you must abide by the terms of the conditional discharge as determined by the judge or county probation office.
Call An Experienced NJ Drug Paraphernalia Lawyer
Carmine R. Villani, Esq. leads the Villani & DeLuca team of experienced criminal defense attorneys. For more than 20 years, Mr. Villani has regularly appeared in New Jersey Superior Court and the many municipal courts in Monmouth County and Ocean County, New Jersey. Mr. Villani will evaluate your case and determine if you are eligible for a conditional discharge or discuss other possible dispositions for your case. If you have been charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, call our criminal defense law firm for a free consultation at 732-965-3350. We represent clients throughout Ocean County and Monmouth County New Jersey.
