Are you being charged with possession of drug paraphernalia in Polk County, FL? These charges can be confusing because they can arise from the possession of everyday objects that the police believe could be used with drugs. Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to help.
Our Polk County drug paraphernalia lawyers have decades of experience and are well-equipped to build a strong defense on your behalf. We’ll examine every detail of your case, challenge weak or improperly obtained evidence, and fight to protect your rights at every stage of the legal process.
Contact our law office today or call us at (863) 688-4606 to arrange a consultation.
Why Choose Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys to Help Me if I’m Arrested for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in Polk County, FL?
Facing charges for drug paraphernalia in Polk County, Florida, can put your reputation and future on the line in ways you may not even realize. You need a Polk County criminal defense lawyer who can assist you promptly. At Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys, we truly care about all our clients and do everything we can to defend them.
Here’s why clients continue to trust us with these difficult situations:
- Over 25 years of legal experience
- Recognition from The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers
- A thorough understanding of state criminal law
We don’t take shortcuts when your freedom is at stake. From the moment you hire us, we’ll advocate fiercely for the best possible outcome in your case.
Reach out to us today for a consultation with a Polk County drug crimes attorney.
Overview of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in Florida
In Florida, you can be charged with possession of drug paraphernalia if the police find items thought to be connected to using, preparing, hiding, or packaging illegal drugs. This can be charged even if there are no illegal substances around or in the paraphernalia.
Everyday objects are often included in these cases if police officers believe they’ve been used with an illegal substance — even if it wasn’t originally made to be used as drug paraphernalia. Some examples include metal or glass pipes, syringes, homemade screens and bongs, rolling papers, or roach clips. Baggies and balloons are common examples as well.
Even common kitchen tools like spoons, bowls, household blenders, or metal containers could trigger an arrest if police think they’ve been used to mix or transport drugs.
What Are the Penalties for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in Florida?
Possession of drug paraphernalia can lead to serious consequences, depending on the circumstances of the charges and your criminal history. Here’s what you could be looking at:
Penalties for Simple Possession
If you’re accused only of possessing items like pipes, rolling papers, or other drug-related items, it’s usually treated as a first-degree misdemeanor. The penalties can include up to one year in jail, one year of probation, and a fine of up to $1,000. Probation in these cases often comes with required random drug testing and possible drug treatment.
Penalties for Manufacturing or Delivering Paraphernalia
The charges and penalties are more severe if you’re accused of manufacturing or delivering paraphernalia. In these cases, you could face a third-degree felony, and a conviction carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and fines.
Penalties for Providing Paraphernalia to a Minor
The legal consequences for providing drug paraphernalia to a minor are increasingly severe. This is a second-degree felony offense. Sentences could reach 15 years, and the fines are significant.
Because a drug paraphernalia charge can lead to prison time and follow you for years, you should reach out to a drug defense lawyer right away after you are arrested.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia?
If you’ve been arrested for a drug paraphernalia-related charge, it’s important to build the strongest defense possible. Here are some common legal defenses your criminal lawyer might use:
The Item Wasn’t Paraphernalia
Sometimes, the object police found simply isn’t illegal drug paraphernalia under the law. Household items such as spoons, small bags, or kitchen scales can all have innocent uses. Your attorney can show there’s no clear proof that the item was meant for drug use.
You Did Not Possess the Item
To be convicted, the state has to prove that you actually owned or controlled the item. If the paraphernalia was found in a shared area, like a car or a community space, your lawyer can argue that it wasn’t yours and there isn’t any proof that you had possession or control over it.
Illegal Search and Seizure
Law enforcement must follow established rules when searching you or your property. This includes having probable cause or a valid warrant. If this doesn’t exist and they searched you anyway, any evidence they recover could be suppressed, meaning the judge prohibits them from using it against you.
These defenses are common, but they aren’t the only ones. When you work with your criminal defense lawyer, they’ll go over all the options and explain which one they think is best.
If you’re worried about what comes next after a Polk County paraphernalia charge, you don’t have to handle it alone. Strong legal representation can help level the playing field and give you clear, realistic options for how you can defend yourself. If you need help or have questions about your charges, don’t wait.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with our Polk County drug paraphernalia attorneys.