If you have been charged with possession of paraphernalia in Florida then you may have a defense. Constructive possession and lack of knowledge are both defenses that are oftentimes successful when fighting possession of paraphernalia cases. Attorney Williams can also attack the legality of any search conducted by law enforcement that led to your arrest. Even if you don’t think you have a defense, you should always speak to an attorney to make sure you have a full understanding of how the law applies specifically to your case. If you want to know more about constructive possession or if you want to talk to a lawyer about how to beat your possession of paraphernalia case in Florida, then contact Matthew Williams now for a free consultation.
In Florida, possession of paraphernalia is defined under Florida Statute 893.147(1). A person commits possession of paraphernalia when they knowingly possess any item that is used, intended to be used, or designed to be used as “drug paraphernalia.”
Possession of paraphernalia is a first-degree misdemeanor, meaning it is punishable by up to one year in jail, or up to one year on probation and up to $1,000 in fines (you can also get a jail sentence followed by probation, but the length of the punishment cannot exceed one year).
In addition to facing jail time, if you are adjudicated guilty of possession of paraphernalia you will have to deal with other collateral consequences; however, there are ways to resolve your case while still protecting your future.
Attorney Williams has been successful in resolving possession of paraphernalia cases with drug court, pre-trial intervention and diversion agreements, all of which result in your case being dropped. He’s also been successful in representing people charged with possession of paraphernalia in jury trials and evidence suppression hearings.
Criminal convictions, especially convictions for drug related charges, carry severe consequences and can never be removed from your criminal record. If you are convicted of a felony you will lose your right to vote, your right to own firearms, and your ability to maintain certain business licenses. You can also lose your ability to receive financial aid, your ability to live in certain places and your ability to obtain a passport.
If you need an attorney who will advise you, fight for your rights, and do everything possible to protect your future, or if someone you know has been charged with possession of paraphernalia in Florida then contact Matthew Williams now for a free consultation.