Lafayette Prescription Drug Crimes Attorney
Most prescription drugs are highly addictive, and people who have never before had a drug problem can become hooked quite easily. Consider this example: a teacher is in a car accident and breaks her leg. Her doctor prescribes a painkiller to help her deal with the pain while her leg is healing. The teacher, who is a kind and smart person, soon becomes addicted to the drug. Over time, she goes to great lengths to get the drug and is eventually charged with prescription fraud.
Does the above example sound like a situation you or a loved one is experiencing? At the law firm of Donald D. Cleveland, APLC, in Lafayette, Louisiana, my legal practice is built on professionalism, integrity and compassion. As your illegal prescription fraud attorney in St. Martin Parish, I will explore all avenues for your defense.
Prescription Drug Crimes Can Represent An Underlying Drug Problem
As a skilled prescription drug crimes lawyer, I know that many of my clients need treatment rather than punishment. I am connected to many different treatment facilities throughout the Lafayette Parish area. If you have an addiction problem, I can make sure you get the help you need.
Prescription drug crimes frequently involve the possession or distribution of:
- Valium, Xanax, Clonazepam and other depressants/barbiturates
- Codeine, Vicodin, OxyContin, oxycodone, Percocet, morphine and other painkillers
- Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta and other stimulants
The types of charges associated with prescription drugs often involve several types of prescription fraud, such as forging prescriptions, “doctor shopping,” or stealing prescription pads. Nurses and other health care professionals with relatively easy access to drugs and prescription pads can find themselves in trouble with prescription drugs.
Defending Yourself Against Prescription Drug Charges Is Possible
In Louisiana, common defenses against prescription drug charges include having a valid prescription from a licensed health care provider, which proves that you legally possessed the drugs. Another defense is lack of knowledge, where you might argue that you were unaware of carrying prescription drugs. If law enforcement persuaded you to commit the crime, this entrapment could be a valid defense.
If applicable, these defenses can help reduce or dismiss charges. Discussing your situation with an attorney can help you identify an effective defense for your case.
The Penalties For Prescription Drug Convictions
In Louisiana, a conviction for illegal possession or distribution of prescription drugs can lead to serious penalties. The law can impose fines and jail time based on the type and amount of drugs involved.
For instance, possessing less than 28 grams of fentanyl without a prescription can lead to between five and 40 years in prison and up to $50,000 in fines. Charges involving higher quantities or previous convictions can increase the potential penalties.
Moreover, a drug conviction can hurt your future. It can make it harder to find a good job, secure a place to live or maintain healthy personal relationships. Employers and landlords often hesitate to trust someone with a drug conviction, and the social stigma can strain family and social connections.
How Can You Respond To Prescription Drug Possession Charges?
If police charge you with a prescription drug offense in Louisiana, act quickly to protect your rights. First, stay calm and do not resist arrest. Remember that the authorities could use what you say against you, so it’s important to remain silent. Do not discuss your case with anyone but your attorney.
Next, contact a criminal defense lawyer who has experience with drug cases in Louisiana. They can guide you through the legal process and help you build a defense. Remember, having a skilled lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prescription Drug Crimes
The unauthorized possession, distribution or misuse of prescription drugs can lead to serious legal consequences, especially now that the issue has become a significant public health issue. Here are some of the things you should know:
How do prescription drug charges differ from other drug charges?
“Street drugs,” such as heroin and cocaine, are generally illegal under all circumstances. In contrast, prescription drug charges are distinct from other drug charges because they involve substances that are used as medication and are typically legal to possess – so long as you have a valid prescription. Unauthorized possession or use of these drugs is still illegal, however.
In addition, crimes involving prescription drugs often lead to charges against medical professionals, such as doctors and pharmacists, who are knowingly or negligently involved in illegal distribution schemes.
What are the potential penalties for prescription drug crimes in Louisiana?
It varies greatly according to the type of drug involved, the amount of the drugs involved and the exact nature of the crime. In general, possession of prescription drugs without a valid prescription, possession with the intent to distribute, prescription fraud, prescription forgery and “doctor shopping” are all felony offenses. These can lead to significant fines, prison time and more.
What is “doctor shopping,” and why is it illegal?
Doctor shopping is the practice of going from one medical provider to another to obtain multiple prescriptions for opioids, benzodiazepines, muscle relaxers and other controlled substances without informing each provider of the other visits or prescriptions. It is a type of prescription drug fraud, whether the patient aims to acquire more medication than would typically be allowed for their own use or to distribute to others.
Fighting For Your Rights – 337-572-9874
Located in downtown Lafayette, I serve the parishes along I-10 from Jefferson Davis Parish to St. Martin Parish, and the parishes along I-49 from St. Landry Parish to St. Mary Parish. Contact me today if you or a loved one is facing prescription drug charges. I provide consultations and can meet with you evenings and weekends by appointment.