In addition to actual drugs, individuals can also be arrested for illegally possessing or delivering drug paraphernalia. Texas law defines drug paraphernalia as equipment, material or products that are intended to be used for unlawfully consuming or producing controlled substances, or performing other actions with these substances. More specifically, drug paraphernalia can be used for unlawfully completing the following actions (in relation to controlled substances): growing, planting, cultivating, manufacturing, compounding, processing, preparing, packaging, storing, concealing, etc. A few examples of drug paraphernalia include bongs, certain types of pipes and kits designed for growing of drugs.
It is unlawful to intentionally use drug paraphernalia or intentionally possess it with the intent to use it for purposes that violate Texas's drug laws, according to Texas Health and Safety Code §481.125. It is also against the law to intentionally deliver drug paraphernalia (or to manufacture drug paraphernalia with the intention of delivering it) while knowing that the object will be used for unlawful purposes.
Possession of drug paraphernalia is considered a Class C misdemeanor in Texas, which can result in a fine of up to $500 upon conviction. Delivery of drug paraphernalia is a Class A misdemeanor, which can lead to up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. The paraphernalia delivery offense can, however, have harsher penalties if it shown that the defendant has previously received a similar conviction, or if it is shown that the defendant is an adult who delivered to a minor (at least three years younger than the defendant).
If you are facing drug paraphernalia charges, you are going to need an attorney to help you fight conviction. Want to know how to find criminal defense lawyer in Fort Bend who is ready to help you protect your best interests? Call my office, the Law Office of John L. Venza Jr., so I can provide you with the cutting-edge legal representation you need for your drug offense case. The sooner you contact me, the sooner I can help you build a strategic defense plan!