NEW JERSEY CRIMINAL LAWYERS

NJ POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA

Defend Yourself Against Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Charges in Voorhees, NJ: Consult Expert Defense Attorneys

Possessing drug paraphernalia in Voorhees Township or anywhere in Camden County can result in severe penalties. It is a disorderly persons criminal offense that could have serious consequences, similar to drug possession charges. Therefore, handling such charges without the help of an experienced defense attorney is unwise. You need legal advice and expertise from a defense attorney when facing drug paraphernalia possession charges.

If you find yourself charged with drug paraphernalia possession in Pennsauken, Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Haddonfield, or Merchantville, immediately consult The Law Offices of Todd Spodek. We are among the top defense firms across NJ, bringing over a century of vast experience to your case.

Our team comprises former prosecutors capable of providing prompt assistance to protect your rights and preserve your freedom. Our attorneys understand how daunting these charges can be and strive to obtain the outcome possible for each client.

Understanding Drug Paraphernalia Possession Charges

According to N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2 of the New Jersey Criminal Code, individuals who possess or use any equipment considered related to drug offenses commit a drug paraphernalia offense charge. It’s essential to note that no one can face allegations violating 2C:36-2 unless they intended to use prohibited substances with the item.

For prosecutors to charge someone with drug paraphernalia possession, they must prove three facts beyond reasonable doubt:
1. The gear found qualifies as drug paraphernalia.
2. The accused used it alongside illegal drugs or intended to use it illicitly.
3. The substance(s) associated with the gear is illegal.

Drug Paraphernalia Definition and Examples

“Drug paraphernalia” refers to any item capable of introducing controlled dangerous substances into the human body effectively. Some commonly listed paraphernalia in N.J.S.A. 2C:36-1 are vials, pipes, water pipes, bongs, spoons, electric pipes, and air-driven pipes. When an object has a multi-purpose function, the court uses several factors to determine if it falls under drug paraphernalia:
– Declarations from the equipment owner or the responsible person on usage intentions.
– The item’s proximity to illegal drugs/controlled substances.
– Evidence of usage remains like residues found with the object.
– Materials accompanying that object instructing or demonstrating how to use it for drug purposes.
– Legitimate uses for that object.
– Direct or indirect proof verifying the defendant’s intent concerning that piece of equipment.

Possible Defenses Against Drug Paraphernalia Possession Charge

Lack of knowledge or intent works as the primary defense against drug paraphernalia charges unless there was a legal issue at the time of search or seizure. This means that if you were unaware of the presence of paraphernalia or had no intention to use such items in criminal activity, your attorney could help you build a defense case.

To determine whether an accused possessed knowledge/intent concerning drug paraphernalia possession charges, six critical factors come into consideration:
– Whether the accused knew about illegal drug presence while in possession of equipment
– Whether they had information regarding how such equipment works
– If relevant lawful usage is vital or very unusual
– Whether they bought/sold through legal/illegal means that particular gear
– Whether defendants had legal/illicit contacts with people who used such items
– Whether there was any indication that they knew about those objects’ presence within their purview/control areas

Understanding Hypodermic Needle/Syringes Charges and Conviction

According to N.J.S.A. 2C:36-6 law regulations, individuals possessing or controlling hypodermic needles (or syringes) violate a disorderly person offense charge. To determine one’s illegal possession, prosecutors must prove that the accused was in actual possession or control of hypodermic needles (or syringes) with the intention of using them for narcotics.

Drug Paraphernalia Possession: Common Charges In Haddonfield, NJ

Drug paraphernalia charges are quite common charges against juveniles and adults in Haddonfield and other counties regardless of financial status. Every year our eight criminal defense lawyers handle hundreds of such cases, where they defend their clients aggressively to obtain the possible outcome.

If you or your loved ones face drug paraphernalia charges, do not hesitate to consult with our experienced attorneys at The Law Offices of Todd Spodek today. We know what it takes to prevent conviction on such serious criminal offenses and how to get your charges downgraded where possible.

Our attorneys will offer you a free consultation session to discuss your drug paraphernalia case intricacies and all available legal options for building a solid defense. Dial 856-662-8300 and schedule an appointment with us today!