Florida Drug Paraphernalia Criminal Defense

Drug paraphernalia charges in Florida can derail careers, disrupt families, and lead to long-term legal consequences if they are not handled with precision. These charges often arise from simple items found during traffic stops, home searches, or encounters with law enforcement. Although commonly treated as lesser drug offenses, a paraphernalia conviction still results in a permanent criminal record and potential jail time. Our Florida criminal defense attorney, Christian Van Riper, a former prosecutor, represents clients facing these charges across Palm Beach County, Broward County, Martin County, and St. Lucie County. We are a veteran-owned law firm and offer discounts for U.S. military veterans.

Florida Law on Drug Paraphernalia

Drug paraphernalia is governed under Florida Statute 893.147, which prohibits the use, possession, manufacture, delivery, or advertisement of items intended for use with controlled substances. The statute is broad and allows law enforcement to classify everyday objects, such as pipes, digital scales, small baggies, rolling papers, syringes, or household tools, as paraphernalia depending on the surrounding circumstances.

Full statute: Florida Statute 893.147

Penalties and Sentencing for Charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Possession or use of drug paraphernalia is a first-degree misdemeanor in Florida. Penalties may include:

• Up to 1 year in the county jail
• Up to 12 months of probation
• Fines up to $1,000
• Driver’s license impact in cases involving controlled substances
• Court-ordered treatment or drug evaluations
• A permanent criminal record affecting jobs, housing, and licensing

Although classified as a misdemeanor, drug paraphernalia cases can be used by Florida prosecutors to build larger drug cases or to suggest intent to possess controlled substances, which is why a strong criminal defense strategy is essential early in the process.

Common Defenses to Drug Paraphernalia Charges

Every paraphernalia case turns on the details. Christian Van Riper’s approach centers on building individualized strategies such as:

• Lack of knowledge of the item found
• Lack of ownership or possession (item found in a shared space or vehicle)
• Items not legally considered paraphernalia
• Absence of drug residue or evidence of use
• Illegal search or seizure under the Fourth Amendment
• Unlawful traffic stop, detention, or questioning
• Insufficient evidence tying the item to drug activity
• Chain-of-custody issues or unreliable field testing

Christian fights hard for dismissal, reduction in charges, or diversion opportunities when handled early and effectively. Diversion programs in Florida allow eligible first-time or low-level offenders to resolve their charges without a conviction by completing conditions such as classes, counseling, community service, or drug testing. Successful completion typically results in the charge being dismissed, protecting the client from a permanent criminal record.

How Christian Van Riper Defends Drug Paraphernalia Cases

Christian Van Riper has practiced criminal law since 2006 and is a former Florida prosecutor who understands how these cases are built from the inside. Christian draws on nearly two decades of courtroom experience to challenge the assumptions, shortcuts, and weak evidence often present in paraphernalia investigations.

Christian is known by his clients over the years for his preparation, his courtroom skill, and his accessibility. Every client receives Christian’s personal cellular phone number, ensuring direct communication at all stages of the case.

From illegal search litigation to negotiation with prosecutors to trial advocacy, Christian focuses on practical solutions and forward-thinking defense strategies aimed at protecting futures, reputations, and employment opportunities. Early representation after an arrest gives Christian the opportunity to quickly petition the court for a bond reduction, helping clients secure release sooner and with less financial strain. Call our Florida Drug Paraphernalia Criminal Defense Lawyer, Christian Van Riper, as soon as possible after an arrest.

Florida Drug Paraphernalia Criminal Defense Law Firm: Where We Serve Clients

Our law firm represents clients charged with drug paraphernalia offenses in:

• Palm Beach County, including our offices in West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, and Boca Raton
• Broward County from our Deerfield Beach office
• Martin and St. Lucie County through our Stuart office

Call or contact Christian using the form below 24/7 for a free consultation about Florida Defense of Drug Paraphernalia Charges at:

West Palm Beach: 561-948-5588

Stuart: 772-283-8712

Delray Beach: 561-894-9862

Boca Raton: 561-948-5589

Deerfield Beach: 954-369-0776