Salt Lake City Drug Crimes Attorney

Lawyers for Drug Possession, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Other Drug Charges in Davis County

Since the mid-1970s, the battle against illegal drugs has been a major focus for both state and federal law enforcement agencies. The so-called "War on Drugs" led to severe penalties and other life-changing consequences for those convicted of drug crimes. In more recent years, attitudes regarding certain substances—marijuana, most notably—have started to change, but other drugs like heroin, methamphetamine, opiates, and cocaine continue to cause serious problems in communities across Utah and throughout the country.

At Collins Rupp, P.C., we understand that a single conviction on any drug-related charge could affect the rest of your life. If you or a member of your family is facing drug crime charges, we can provide the responsible, aggressive representation you need.

Counsel for Drug-Related Misdemeanors and Felonies in Utah

In most cases, the possession of a controlled substance for personal use is considered a Class A misdemeanor under Utah law. A Class A misdemeanor carries a statutory maximum sentence of up to 12 months and fines of up to $2,500. It is important to remember that you could be charged with drug possession if you are found with otherwise legal prescription drugs that were not prescribed for you.

The severity of the charges and the associated penalties, however, can vary depending on the type of drug and the amount of the drug in question. At Collins Rupp, P.C., our lawyers are fully up to date on all applicable Utah drug laws, and we are equipped to help clients with charges related to:

• Marijuana, including visitors from "legal" states charged with marijuana possession in Utah
• Heroin
• Methamphetamine
• Cocaine and crack-cocaine
• Prescription drugs, including OxyContin, Vicodin, fentanyl, and other opiates/opioids
• Any other controlled substances.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

It might come as a surprise to learn that you could also face criminal charges for a drug-related offense if you are found to be in possession of what the law considers "drug paraphernalia." According to the law in Utah, drug paraphernalia refers to any product, equipment, or material that is used for the production, cultivation, testing, packaging, or consumption of a controlled substance.

Examples of drug paraphernalia include but are not limited to:

• Testing equipment
• Materials for "cutting" a controlled substance
• Scales, baggies, and capsules for packaging
• Syringes or needles
• Pipes, bongs, and vaporizers

Possession of drug paraphernalia is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and $1,000 in fines.

Putting Your Rights First

The charges against you may rely heavily on the evidence found by law enforcement before you were arrested. If the search for evidence was illegal or compromised your Fourth Amendment rights, the evidence could be thrown out by the court and the charged against you could be dropped.

Attorneys Logan Collins and Joseph Rupp are also ready to assist you in facing charges of possession with intent to distribute, drug manufacturing, and any other drug crime. When appropriate, we will negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf as we explore options for minimizing the potential consequences and reducing the charges against you. In some cases, diversionary programs may be available to limit the long-term effects on your future.

Let Us Help

If you or someone you love has been arrested on charges of drug possession or any other drug-related offense, contact our office. Call Collins Rupp, P.C. at 385-777-2753 to a schedule free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our team today.