It may surprise you to learn that drug charges in Connecticut do not always involve actual drugs. You may also face charges for paraphernalia, which, according to the Connecticut General Assembly, is anything that is used to grow, deliver, use or prepare drugs. This may cover a large range of items, but it must be shown that you intended to use drugs with the item or otherwise engage in drug activities associated with the paraphernalia.
Do note that if the drug in question is marijuana, you may not be charged with a crime. Paraphernalia charges associated with marijuana are often considered infractions, which are more minor charges. In association with other drugs, though, this type of charge can be a misdemeanor or felony. In addition, if your activities are close to a school, you may end up with a harsher sentence. Typically, if it is determined your charges are related to a drug factory situation, where you are making a large amount of drugs and operating a large-scale operation for distribution, then you will face felony charges and more severe sentences.
You may face fines, jail time and even lose your license if you are found guilty of a paraphernalia charge. You should also be aware that many of these charges come with minimum mandatory sentences. This means that the judge must give you at least the minimum sentence for the charge. There is no discretion allowed for a mandatory punishment. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not given as legal advice.
