Utah legal term
Possess in Utah Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Utah legislative session
In Utah criminal law, “Possess” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Utah criminal code.
What does “Possess” mean in Utah criminal law?
"Possess" means to have physical possession of or to exercise dominion or control over tangible property. (Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-101.5)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
- Category II restricted person participating in prohibited dangerous weapon conduct
- Misusing public money or public property
- Possession of a dangerous weapon by a minor
- Unauthorized possession of property
- Abuse of nitrous oxide
- Abuse of psychotoxic chemical solvent
- Aggravated cruelty to an animal
- Carrying a dangerous weapon while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Category I restricted person participating in prohibited dangerous weapon conduct
- Drinking alcoholic beverage and open containers in motor vehicle prohibited
- Possession of a dangerous weapon by a convicted criminal gang offender
- Torturing a companion animal
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.