What to do about a first offensedrug paraphernalia charge?
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What to do about a first offensedrug paraphernalia charge?
We had a party, and the police came to bust it. During the clear out an officer went into my closed room, and into my shut closet to “look for people hiding” without my permission. There was a bong up on the top shelf of my closet. He brought it out, and they got a warrant and searched the whole house, found no weed. (there was none in the house). This is my first criminal charge of any kind. Should I fight it or just ask for deferred judgement and pay the fine?
Asked on February 6, 2012 under Criminal Law, Iowa
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If you have been cited for the first time for a drug paraphernalia offense, I suggest that you consult with a criminal defense attorney to defend you rather than simply asking for deferred judgment and a fine and hope that you get the request.
My experience is that a seasoned criminal defense attorney can do a world of good for a first time offender such as you where the ultimate result most likely would be better negotiated by the attorney than yourself.
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