How Bad is a drug paraphernalia ticket?
I live in Texas and got a ticket for possession of drug paraphernalia, because a cop searched my car, and said that a wooden case I had in my car had marijuana residue in it which I do not think it did. So I was wondering how bad is this ticket. This is my 1st ever criminal charge so what should I expect when i go to court? Is it necessary to get a lawyer? If so how much do lawyers usually cost because I’m 19 and don’t want to tell my parents! And is this bad for my record?
If the police lab confirms that there was marijuana residue in the box, you’re screwed. Texas has been known to impose a life sentence without parole for possession of as little as one marijuana seed! You will need to get your lawyer to see to it that an independent lab tests the box, too. If you can prove there was no such residue, you’re home free.
You MUST tell your ‘rents. You’re gonna need all the help you can get!