Authorities in California take drug-related offenses very seriously and will often investigate in great depth if any form of illegal drug use is suspected. Of course, this can mean that innocent people occasionally come under suspicion, often simply through being in the wrong place at the wrong time. For example, if you are in a vehicle when it is stopped and drugs are found within, you may be suspected of having some connection with the illegal substances.
In certain circumstances you could even face criminal charges despite not being in possession of any drugs at all and not having any in your system. One way this can happen is if you are found in possession of drug paraphernalia. This equipment is illegal to sell, export, import or mail, so if you are suspected of doing any of these things, it could have serious consequences.
Of course, the big problem with paraphernalia charges is that perfectly innocent equipment can appear to be intended for use with illegal drugs. As this article on paraphernalia explains, even if the equipment is labeled to suggest it is not for such use, this may not be enough to protect you from suspicion or even criminal charges.
It is vital to know the laws in your home state if you want to protect yourself from such charges. An attorney can help you to understand what you can and cannot do within the letter of the law. He or she may also be able to support you if you are faced with criminal charges. With the right support you can work toward a more favorable resolution and may be able to avoid conviction altogether.