
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in Virginia
Can You Be Arrested for Drug Paraphernalia Without Drugs?
While many people are aware of the charges they could face when caught in possession of controlled substances, many do not realize they can be charged with a drug crime if they have drug paraphernalia in their possession even you do not have drugs in your possession at the time of your arrest.
Despite the general population being unaware, drug paraphernalia charges are one of the most common charges in Virginia.
If you have been arrested and accused of possession of drug paraphernalia, you should take these charges seriously as they could lead to fines, probation or time served. Make sure your rights are protected and set yourself up for success by hiring the counsel of an experienced Virginia Beach drug paraphernalia lawyer.
Call (757) 267-4949 to make an appointment with The Law Offices of Daniel J Miller.
What Is Considered Drug Paraphernalia?
Federally, any item or equipment that is primarily used or designed for manufacturing, producing, concealing, injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or processing illegal substances can be considered drug paraphernalia. For the courts to determine something as drug paraphernalia they examine the circumstances of how and where the item was found. For example, if the defendant runs a successful online jewelry making company, they are likely to be in possession of a postal scale for their business and not for drug use.
Examples of drug paraphernalia include:
- Postal scales
- Miniature spoons
- Glass water pipes
- Pipes
- Bongs
- Rolling papers
- Chillums
- Roach clips
Understanding How Possession Is Determined
There is two legal definitions Virginia law enforcement use when charging someone for possession of drug paraphernalia.
- Actual Possession: Actual possession is established when a prosecutor can prove the item was in your hands or readily in your reach. An example of an item not found in your hands but in your reach could mean something found in your pocket, purse or backpack.
- Constructive Possession: Constructive possession occurs when the item is not found on your person but within your control. An example of this could be if police found the item in your bedroom or within your car.


Contact the Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller
If you have been arrested for drug paraphernalia, retaining an experienced lawyer is crucial to ensure your rights are protected. Possession of drug paraphernalia may not seem like a big deal, but a criminal record can follow you for the rest of your life. Our skilled criminal defense attorney in Virginia Beach can fight to get your charges decreased or even dropped.
Schedule your consultation by calling (757) 267-4949.

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I hired Mr. Miller initially for a bond hearing . I decided to retain his services for the case itself . I was facing two felony charges as well as a failure to appear charge . While there were witnesses that were able to identify me, I walked out of Virginia Beach Courthouse with only a misdemeanor thanks to Mr. Miller's representation . I work in the healthcare profession and expressed to Mr. Miller the importance of avoiding a felony charge and he made it happen. I am forever grateful and will highly recommend him . Mr. Miller will always represent myself as well as family members if need be in the future . Again thank you Mr. Miller for using your knowledge to keep me from being a convicted felon and also saving my career.- C. Dickens
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