While indisputably liberal and open-minded, the state of California — not to mention the federal government — has expansive drug laws that, when broken, often lead to serious consequences for those convicted of drug-related misdemeanors.
Drug Paraphernalia
Generally speaking, “drug paraphernalia” describes any equipment used to prepare, inject, inhale or conceal illicit substances — i.e. cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, etc. According to the National Drug Intelligence Center, it’s illegal for anyone to sell, import or export any drug paraphernalia, such as bongs, pipes, rolling papers and syringes. Many bongs include labels stating that they are intended for tobacco use only, but you may still be charged with drug paraphernalia depending on where you purchased the bong and how it looks.
Drug Possession
A person in possession of an illegal substance may be charged with simple possession or with possession with intent to distribute. A simple possession charge, as you may have guessed, typically applies to people in possession of small amounts of an illegal drug, while a larger amount may lead to a charge of possession with intent to distribute.
Dealing
Drug dealing typically refers to the sale of illicit substances on a small scale. Keep in mind that drug dealing and trafficking are defined differently at the state and federal level, and penalties will vary depending on the substance and the amount sold.
Call Hales & Associates, Attorneys at Law Today
If you have any questions regarding drug crimes in the state of California, please contact the attorneys at Hales & Associates, Attorneys and schedule your complimentary consultation. With over twenty years’ experience defending Murrieta clients in misdemeanor cases, our legal advocates are here to help you move forward.