Conviction for possession of drug paraphernalia in Salt Lake can result in fines, losing your driver license, and even jail time. Stephen Howard is an experienced criminal defense attorney who represents clients facing drug paraphernalia and other drug-related charges in Salt Lake City and throughout the state. He has the experience necessary to help you successfully navigate the Utah criminal justice system. Contact us today to arrange for an initial consultation.
Penalties for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Drug paraphernalia charges in Salt Lake begin at the class B misdemeanor level (punishable by up to six months in jail). But an enhancement can increase the level of the offense to a class A misdemeanor (punishable by up to a year in jail) if the offense occurs in one of the area’s may “drug free” zones. In addition to possible jail time, the maximum fine for a class B paraphernalia conviction is $1,900 (including surcharge). A misdemeanor class A paraphernalia conviction carries a potential fine of $4,750 (including surcharge).
What Constitutes Drug “Paraphernalia” in Utah?
Utah law defines “drug paraphernalia” in very broad terms. Whether an item will be considered drug paraphernalia ultimately depends on the item’s intended use.
While items such as pipes or syringes may be commonly recognized types of drug paraphernalia, other innocent items (such as pens, spoons, aluminum foil, baggies, balloons, or even paper) can become paraphernalia if a police officer is convinced that an item’s intended use involves drug use, packaging, manufacturing, growing, etc.
Choosing the Right Criminal Attorney for Your Case
Criminal defense lawyer Stephen Howard has extensive experience dealing with drug cases in Salt Lake and surrounding areas. He is one of only a few criminal defense lawyers in private practice with experience working inside Utah’s felony drug court system. He has successfully protected his clients’ rights in thousands of serious felony and misdemeanor cases.
Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
