Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Los Angeles & South Bay Possession Defense Attorney

In California it is a crime to be in possession of drug paraphernalia.  Drug paraphernalia refers to materials, equipment, products, or chemicals used to create, package, or consume an illegal controlled substance, drug, or narcotic.  Examples of drug paraphernalia include: 

• Rolling paper
• Pipes or bongs
• Syringes
• Needles
• Straws (used for sniffing cocaine or other drugs)
• Scales, baggies, vials, other packaging supplies
• Containers disguised as something else to hide drugs
• Laboratory equipment for manufacturing drugs

If you’re facing charges for possession of drug paraphernalia in Los Angeles or South Bay, it’s important to consult an attorney who has a solid understanding of California drug crimes law.  Although possession of drug paraphernalia may seem like simple charges, the truth is these types of cases can be complex.  It’s not illegal to buy or possess plastic bags, scales, rolling paper, or even a bong or pipe.  It is illegal however to use those materials for to create, consume, or package an illegal drug.  This means the prosecution has the burden of proving that you not only had the materials in your possession, but also that you intended to use the materials for the purpose of committing an illegal drug crime.

Defense Against Drug Paraphernalia Charges in LA & South Bay

At Okabe & Haushalter, we have successfully defended many clients against drug paraphernalia charges throughout Los Angeles and South Bay.  We know of many effective defense strategies for fighting these types of charges, some of which include:

• Determining whether or not the police violated your constitutional rights during the investigation
• Determining whether or not the police violated federal search and seizure laws during the investigation
• Determining whether or not the police had just cause to search you or your property
• Determining whether or not the particular item or paraphernalia was in fact illegal
• Determining whether or not the police officer had enough experience to determine whether or not the item was in fact drug paraphernalia

If you need help fighting your drug paraphernalia charges, you’ve come to the right law firm.  For experienced and aggressive defense against your charges, please contact a Los Angeles and South Bay drug paraphernalia defense lawyer at Okabe & Haushalter today!