Johnson City Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Defense Lawyer
Defining Drug Paraphernalia Identification in Tennessee
Drug paraphernalia is defined as any object which can be used to introduce a controlled substance into the human body in any way. Because so many common items can be used as drug paraphernalia, and using them as such is a crime, it is important for law enforcement to prove that a given item was being used as paraphernalia.
Drug paraphernalia is typically thought of as a pipe, bong, or grinder, and these items are actually legal until used to consume the drugs. Paraphernalia can also include a very wide variety of other common household items which are perfectly legal until used to make or consume the drugs.
The arresting officer and the courts will consider several different aspects when determining whether an item is considered “drug paraphernalia” including:
- Prior convictions
- Expert testimony
- The likelihood of the object having other legitimate uses
- Statements made by the person in control of the object, or the object’s owner
- Presence of residue from a controlled substance
- Instructional materials concerning the object’s use
Call our Johnson City drug paraphernalia attorneys at Meade Law Group today if you have been charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and let our experience go to work for you!
Penalties of a Drug Paraphernalia Conviction
If convicted, you could be facing either a Class A misdemeanor or a Class E felony. A first offense Class A misdemeanor brings with it up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and up to $2,500 in fines, whereas the Class E felony can result in up to 6 years in prison and up to $3,000 in fines. At Meade Law Group, we know how much is at stake as you face your charges in court. Let our Johnson City drug crime defense lawyers help you to ensure that your rights are defended aggressively and decisively
Call us today at (423) 464-7779 to get started with a free phone consultation and learn more about your options.