COMMON PRESCRIPTION DRUG OFFENSES

On behalf of Craig E. Gibbs, Attorney at Law on Sunday, January 20, 2019.

When facing criminal charges, you understand that a conviction can change the trajectory of your life. A mark on your criminal record can affect everything from your ability to get a job to a child custody proceeding, and it is worthwhile to confront any type of charge with a strong defense. This is the case with drug charges, specifically prescription drug charges. 

When a person misuses prescription drugs by selling them, trafficking them or using them to make other types of street drugs, the penalties can be steep. The abuse of prescription drugs is a widespread problem, and a conviction of this type of crime can result in extensive time behind bars. If you are facing these charges, you do not have to face them alone.

A major criminal problem

Prescription drug charges are serious, and they merit the need for a serious defense strategy. No matter what type of drug, the amount of the drug or accompanying charges, you would be wise to take immediate action to protect your interests and start developing an appropriate defense strategy. The types of drugs associated with abuse and illegal activities can include the following: 

• Narcotics
• Opioids
• Depressants
• Pain relievers
• Certain types of stimulants

There are many ways to obtain medications for illegal purposes, including doctor shopping and forging prescriptions. The penalties for a conviction include fines that amount to thousands of dollars and time in jail. Even if it is your own prescription medication, the abuse or illegal handling of a drug can result in serious criminal charges.

There are both Louisiana and federal laws in place to prevent prescription drug abuse. If you are facing these charges, you may be unsure of what to do next. A smart course of action includes seeking defense help and an evaluation of the entire case. 

Discover your options

The charges against you are serious and the prosecution’s case may seem strong, but a conviction is never your only option. It is possible to fight back and confront these charges with a strong defense, which may include challenging a police investigation or presenting evidence that is beneficial for you.

You do not have to wait until there are formal charges against you. It is prudent to act immediately to shield yourself from the potential repercussions and penalties that can follow charges of prescription drug abuse. It might help to discuss your defense needs with an experienced Louisiana attorney.