Prescription drug abuse is a nationwide problem, and it’s growing. As such, prescription fraud crimes are also on the rise. If you’re facing prescription fraud charges, you could be convicted of drug crimes, but you can also be convicted of forgery. A legal prescription must be signed by a licensed doctor with the appropriate education and credentials to write it. Otherwise, it’s a falsified prescription…and it’s a crime. If you have been charged with prescription drug fraud, contact a Boston defense lawyer today.
Prescription drug abuse impacts all of us. In the United States, approximately 15 million people abuse prescription drugs. That is a higher number than those who abuse heroin, cocaine, inhalants, and hallucinogens, combined. In fact, one survey revealed that about six percent of Americans between the ages of 17 and 25 have abused prescription drugs. In 2005, there were 22,400 drug overdoses in the United States. Of those, 38 percent were the result of opioid painkillers. The most commonly abused prescription drugs are depressants, antidepressants, and opioid painkillers. According to research, one of the problems may be that teens believe prescription drugs to be safer than illegal drugs. About 50 percent of teens surveyed had this misconception.
Fraudulent Prescriptions vs. Valid Prescriptions
For a prescription to be valid, federal law requires that the following information is present on the note:
- Issue date
- Name and strength of drug
- Per pill dosage
- Quantity
- Usage directions
- Number of refills
- Signature of an authorized physician
Alternative Sentencing Options
Prescription fraud is a form of drug dealing. The courts may consider this to be true even if the drugs are for your own personal use. If you have been charged with any type of prescription crime, you are more likely to need help than criminal punishment. In Massachusetts, participation in a diversion program may be an alternative to time behind bars and costly fines. If the defendant is an addict, he or she may also be eligible for a drug treatment program. By enrolling in one of these programs, your punishment may be removed if you successfully meet all program requirements. In addition, your sentence may be reduced to a lesser offense.
If you have been charged with prescription drug fraud, contact a MA defense lawyer today.
Experienced Legal Counsel
Although alternative sentencing options are available, they aren’t always approved. That is why you need the help of a skilled drug crimes defense lawyer if you are facing prescription drug charges. Depending on the circumstances of your situation, prescription drug crimes can land you in prison for up to eight years and can cost you up to $30,000 in fines. Prescription fraud is no laughing matter. Don’t make the mistake of trying to fight these charges on your own. The right attorney can be the difference between a diversion program and years behind bars.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving All of Massachusetts
If you have been charged with any type of crime, the skilled defense team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. We have been fighting to protect the rights of individuals charged with crimes for more than 50 years. It is our goal to keep you out of jail. If you have a prescription drug addiction, a drug treatment program is usually a much better option than getting locked up. At Altman & Altman, LLP, we have an impressive track record of getting clients’ charges reduced, or dismissed entirely. We understand that good people make mistakes. Our knowledgeable, experienced drug crimes defense team will analyze the details of your case to determine the appropriate legal strategy, and we will position you for the best possible outcome. If you consult with our legal team, we will ensure that you fully understand your rights and options before moving to step two. Don’t go through this difficult time alone. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.