Drug Possession Defense Lawyer Based in Las Vegas

Drug possession charges can have severe consequences in Nevada, leading to both short-term and long-term implications on an individual’s life. It’s one of the different drug crimes that you can be charged with.

A skilled drug possession defense lawyer is crucial in navigating the legal system and ensuring the best possible outcome for those facing these charges. The Defenders, a leading defense law firm with offices in Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada has experienced attorneys dedicated to helping clients who have been charged with drug possession, as well as other types of drug-related charges.

Our team of qualified attorneys will provide you with the best representation possible for your case. We understand the unique challenges of criminal defense cases in Nevada and strive to obtain the best possible outcome for our clients. Our attorneys are experienced at representing individuals charged with drug possession and will vigorously fight on your behalf.

Whether you have been charged with simple possession or more serious forms of drug crime, The Defenders has the experience to help you navigate this difficult process. We will listen to your story and provide you with a tailored defense strategy that fits your specific situation. Contact our team for a free case evaluation today.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Drug paraphernalia is defined as equipment, products and materials of any kind which are used, intended for use, or designed for use, in planting, propagating, cultivating, growing, harvesting, manufacturing, compounding, converting, producing, processing, preparing, testing, analyzing, packaging, repackaging, storing, concealing, containing, injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human body a controlled substance. Being convicted of possessing drug paraphernalia can be serious and include harsh penalties like jail time or heavy fines.

Drug paraphernalia can include items such as (but not limited to):

• Any type of pipe
• Water, chamber, carburetor, electric or air-driven pipes, ice-pipes or chillers
• Bongs or chillums
• Grinders
• Carburetion tubes or devices
• Smoking or carburetion masks
• Small spoons with a level capacity of one-tenth cubic centimeters
• Objects used to hold burning material that is too small to hold by hand
• Drug testing kit
• Dilutants and adulterants
• Bowls
• Containers

Because possession is a required element to paraphernalia offense, the prosecution must be able to show that the offender had constructive or actual possession.

Constructive possession must include that the offender was aware the paraphernalia was in their possession or had the intent to take or was physically able to take possession of paraphernalia. Actual possession is when the offender has actual, physical control of the paraphernalia on their body or in their possession.

Penalties for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Penalties an alleged offender may face with possession of drug paraphernalia can include a misdemeanor offense that is punishable by up to 6 months in jail and fines not exceeding $1,000.

An individual convicted of unlawful delivery, procession, sale or manufacture of drug paraphernalia will be convicted of a category E felony, which can mean 1-4 years in prison.

If the alleged offender is convicted of delivering paraphernalia to a minor, they will face a category C felony, which can mean 1-5 years in prison.

Possession of a Controlled Substance

It doesn’t matter if you are in possession of drugs, narcotics or controlled substances for personal use, being in possession of these items can lead to severe penalties for a felony drug conviction.

This offense can include the typical prison and fine penalties that come with a felony conviction, but also, it can lead to the inability to receive government funding, denial to certain education programs and the inability to pursue certain professions or occupations, as well as a criminal record and the inability to own or possess a firearm.

How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help

A skilled drug possession defense lawyer like The Defenders will thoroughly assess your case’s facts and develop a solid defense strategy tailored to the your specific situation. Some common defenses against drug possession charges include:

Lack of Knowledge or Intent

A crucial element of any drug possession charge is that the defendant knowingly and intentionally possessed the controlled substance. If the defense can demonstrate that the defendant was unaware of the drug’s presence or did not intend to possess it, the charges may be dismissed or reduced. This defense is also known as an “unknowing possession” defense.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement officers conducted an illegal search and seizure, any evidence obtained during that search may be deemed inadmissible in court. This can result in the dismissal of the charges or a significant reduction in the penalties.

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement officers induce an individual to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. If the defense can prove entrapment, the charges may be dismissed.

Medical Necessity

The defense can be used when the accused can prove that they had a valid medical reason to take the drugs that are being questioned. This defense is commonly utilized in cases involving prescribed medications.