Dayton Beach Drug Paraphernalia Lawyer
Aggressive Defense Against Drug Paraphernalia Charges in Florida
At Thompson Law, P.A., we are committed to providing professional legal services to our clients in Daytona Beach and the surrounding areas. We specialize in a wide range of legal matters, including drug-related offenses. If you are facing charges related to drug paraphernalia, having a skilled attorney by your side is essential.
Call Thompson Law, P.A. today at (386) 280-4977 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our drug paraphernalia attorney in Daytona Beach!
What is Drug Paraphernalia?
Drug paraphernalia refers to various items, equipment, or materials used in the manufacturing, packaging, or consumption of controlled substances, such as drugs. The Florida Statutes specifically define drug paraphernalia in Section 893.145. It encompasses a broad range of objects, including but not limited to:
- Pipes and Bongs: Devices used for smoking or inhaling drugs.
- Syringes and Needles: Commonly associated with intravenous drug use.
- Containers: Jars, bags, or other receptacles for storing or concealing controlled substances.
- Scales and Balances: Used for weighing drugs, often to measure portions for sale.
- Spoons and Other Utensils: Frequently employed to prepare drugs for consumption.
- Rolling Papers: Used for making homemade cigarettes, often filled with illicit substances.
- Testing Equipment: Kits or devices designed to test the purity or potency of drugs.
- Roach Clips: Clamps or holders designed for securing partially smoked marijuana cigarettes (roach clips).
Possession, sale, manufacture, or advertisement of drug paraphernalia is illegal in Florida and can lead to serious legal consequences.
What are the Penalties for Drug Paraphernalia in Florida?
The penalties for drug paraphernalia offenses in Florida can vary depending on the specifics of your case and your prior criminal record. However, some common consequences include:
- Misdemeanor Charges: In many cases, drug paraphernalia offenses are classified as first-degree misdemeanors, resulting in up to one year in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
- Felony Charges: If the drug paraphernalia was used with the cultivation, manufacture, or distribution of controlled substances, you could face felony charges. Felonies carry much more severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
- Probation: A judge may also sentence you to probation, including regular drug testing, mandatory counseling or treatment programs, and restricted travel.
- Criminal Record: A conviction for a drug paraphernalia offense can leave a lasting mark on your criminal record, impacting your future employment prospects and other aspects of your life.
Defenses Against Drug Paraphernalia Charges
Facing drug paraphernalia charges can be intimidating, but several potential defenses can be used to protect your rights and challenge the allegations. These defenses may include:
- Lack of Knowledge: Proving that you were unaware that the items in your possession were drug paraphernalia can be a strong defense. Demonstrating that you did not know the items' intended use can cast doubt on the charges against you.
- Illegal Search and Seizure: If the evidence against you was obtained through law enforcement's illegal search or seizure, it may be inadmissible in court. This can lead to the dismissal of your case.
- Valid Medical Prescription: If you have a valid prescription for the items in question, such as syringes or specific medical devices, you may have a strong defense against drug paraphernalia charges.
- Inaccurate Testing or Identification: Challenging the accuracy of the testing or identification of the alleged paraphernalia can also be an effective defense strategy. Mistakes can occur during the testing process, and these errors can be exposed during your defense.
Client-Focused. RESULT-DRIVEN.
Working Closely with You To Build a Strong Case
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All Charges Dismissed Domestic Battery
Client and his husband were involved in a verbal argument. The alleged victim contacted police against the claiming that he threw a glass of milk on him. Under the law, this is considered a battery. Attorney Thompson represented the Client on both the criminal case and the injunction and both were dismissed.
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Penalties Reduced Grand Theft, Fleeing, Possession of a Fictitious Driver’s License
Attorney Matt Thompson, through depositions and litigation was able to show that officers did not act according to the warrant by picking up the client immediately upon sight. The charge of Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Law Enforcement, which carries a mandatory felony conviction, was dismissed by the State and the client was offered probation and no felony conviction.
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No Criminal Charges Filed Public Assistance Fraud
Attorney Thompson and Client reviewed case and met with Department of Revenue investigators to explain the discrepancy. In doing so, the State determined that they would not seek criminal charges, but offered a repayment plan through non-judicial means.
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All Charges Dismissed Domestic Violence
Client was texting a friend when her significant other tried to grab for her phone. When the client tried to pull away, the victim claimed that he was battered and the client was arrested and brought before DCF due a child being in the house. Attorney Matt Thompson wrote a letter to the State explaining the discrepancy in evidence and claimed that the client was in fact moving away from the victim and did not intentionally try to hit the victim. All charges against the client were dismissed.
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All Charges Reduced Aggravated Battery
Attorney Thompson conducted depositions on the alleged victim and third-party witness. Attorney Thompson was able to show that the victim was harassing the Defendant and was not being truthful to the police. Attorney Thompson filed Order to Show Cause against the third-party witness for avoiding subpoena for depositions.
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All Charges Dismissed Child Abuse Battery
The Client was entangled in a contentious divorce where her ex-husband used the criminal legal system to try to gain leverage against the Client in the family law courts. Attorney Thompson was able to provide documentation, witness statements, and a certificate of completion of a parenting class to get all charges dismissed against the client.