Many people know that possessing drugs in Ohio is illegal, but what about drug paraphernalia? Having these items in your possession can lead to serious legal repercussions, including fines, jail time, and even losing your driver’s license. If you’re interested in learning more about Ohio’s laws regarding drug paraphernalia, here is what you need to know.
Drug Paraphernalia Laws in Ohio
Under Ohio Revised Code Section 2925.14, the state law specifies that drug paraphernalia is prohibited. These items often refer to items used for the cultivation, manufacturing, storage, or consumption of illegal drugs. Paraphernalia can include:
- Syringes or vials
- Bongs or pipes
- Scales
- Other equipment connected with drug use
Under the law, a person knowingly possessing, advertising, or distributing drug paraphernalia is a criminal offense. Anyone who is in possession of these items could face penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.
Can a Conviction Affect Your Driving License?
When convicted of a drug paraphernalia offense, some individuals might not be aware that their driver’s licenses could be at risk. Since the state takes these offenses very seriously, a conviction could have additional consequences, such as suspension of a driving privilege.
Like most types of offense, the suspension period can vary based on several factors, such as:
- The person’s prior criminal history, including whether they are a first-time or repeat offender
- The offense severity
A conviction can lead to a six-month driver’s license suspension for first-time offenders. On the other hand, repeat offenders could face longer suspension periods.
Along with losing a driver’s license, an individual may also face the possibility of revoking their commercial driver’s license and ineligibility to apply for other professional licenses in the state. Those underage drivers may even have their driver’s permit revoked as well.
Can Your License Be Reinstated?
After a license suspension, regaining those privileges is not an automatic guarantee. Many times, the driver is required to meet specific conditions for reinstatement, such as:
- Completing a drug treatment or education program
- Paying fees or fines
- Demonstrating a commitment to avoid committing future offenses
Seeking Legal Counsel
When you find yourself confronted with drug paraphernalia charges and the possibility of losing your driver’s license, it is always recommended to seek the advice of a skilled drug possession lawyer. Since Ohio’s drug laws can be complex, a knowledgeable attorney can provide tailored advice to fit your situation.
In any case, you will want to consider all possible options for lessening the impact of the consequences. One potential strategy is negotiating a plea agreement emphasizing rehabilitation and education, which could lead to reduced charges or penalties. Once again, these options will depend on your prior criminal history and the offense’s circumstances.
Learn More About Drug Paraphernalia Possession in Ohio
Those convicted of possession of drug paraphernalia may face fines and potential imprisonment. However, there may also be the possibility of losing their driver’s license. If you are in this situation, you don’t want to handle this serious offense alone.
At Hunt Law LLC, we have been able to successfully defend individuals who have been accused of these crimes in Ohio. To arrange a free consultation, please contact us at 330-469-9836.