Prescription drugs are everywhere these days. You really just need to browse through a newspaper or switch on the media reports to see that the abuse of prescription drugs has arrived at higher levels in the U.S. To combat this problem, Federal prosecutors and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have directed their concentration on the sale and distribution of prescription medication in an effort to close out the commonly named “pill mills” and end the forbidden distribution. Oxycontin, Xanax, Methadone, Morphine, Valium, and Diazepam are just some of the various prescription drugs that are illegally abused.
Many drug criminal offenses are regarded as connected to illegal narcotics; prescription drugs, nonetheless, are managed by the government, which indicates that a person may deal with a host of other criminal penalties. Some other charges that might surface consist of possession of prescription drugs without authorized prescription, or for the distribution, manufacturing, sale or trafficking of the substance without the valid authority to do so. Prescription fraud is also one more very serious matter related to prescription drug offenses, involving the numerous crimes of deception, forgery, and misrepresentation.
Prescription Drugs Criminal Penalties
The penalties that might be imposed for a prescription drugs offense will surely differ from state to state. Despite whether the crime is charged as a state or federal offense will affect the sentencing. The distinct type of substance included and the quantity is also extremely relevant to establishing the result of the case. Some prescription drugs, for example, are classified as Schedule I or Schedule II drugs, which normally subject the offending person to far more critical punishment. Also, those regarded less addictive and dangerous by the government may bring substantial fines and perhaps even jail time, in addition to a criminal record which could affect your profession and employment opportunities.
Possession of any controlled or prescription drugs aside from marijuana is a felony offense. Sentences can be a minimum fine of a $315 and a maximum sentence of 12 months in jail for a first offense. Second or subsequent charges carry enhanced penalties. Other factors may cause enhanced sentencing, which indicates harsher punishments. If you have a prior conviction for a drug offense, were in possession of illegal prescription drugs or controlled substances near of a chapel, academic institution, park, or business, or a minor was involved in the offense, you will deal with a more severe penalty.
Prescription Drugs Lawyer in Iowa
In defense of a prescription drugs criminal case, make certain to find a legal representative that seeks out any weaknesses in the proof and any constitutional defenses based on the illegal searches and seizures, in addition to improperly obtained confessions. An attorney that can also use the window of time between the arrest and the filing of formal charges to impact the prosecutor’s charging decision will also be advantageous to your case.
