Prescription Drug Charges

Mercer County has some of the strictest laws regarding drug abuse, and those laws extend to prescription drugs. Violations can carry considerable consequences, including hefty fines and lengthy prison terms. While many associate drug laws with harder substances, the misuse of prescription drugs is treated just as seriously.

If you or someone you love faces charges for illegal possession or acquisition of prescription drugs, it’s vital to seek help from an experienced criminal lawyer. At Logue Law Group, we are dedicated to defending your rights and protecting your reputation within the community.

What You Need to Know About Prescription Drug Laws in Mercer

Under Pennsylvania law, illegally acquiring or possessing controlled substances through deceit, fraud, forgery, or other deceptive practices, whether for personal use or distribution, is a criminal act. This includes actions such as forging prescriptions, obtaining a prescription through fraudulent means, and possessing prescription drugs categorized under Pennsylvania’s Drug Schedules III, IV, and V, as well as certain Schedule II drugs.

Possible Offenses Include:

• Writing illegal prescriptions using a stolen doctor’s pad.
• Stealing someone else’s prescription.
• Altering a legitimate prescription to purchase drugs.
• Creating counterfeit prescriptions to obtain medications.
• Impersonating medical professionals to request or refill prescriptions.
• Unlawfully distributing or selling prescription medications.
• Medical professionals violating regulations or prescribing medications improperly.

Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs in Mercer

Prescription drug misuse is a growing issue in many parts of the country, Mercer included. Some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs include:

• Morphine
• Codeine
• Adderall/amphetamines
• Vicodin/hydrocodone
• Demerol/meperidine
• Oxycontin/oxymorphone
• Xanax/alprazolam
• Valium/diazepam

This broad variety of medications has led to increased oversight and enforcement related to prescription drug offences in the area.

Consequences of a Conviction for Prescription Drug Crimes

Convictions for prescription drug crimes in Mercer carry significant penalties. But what constitutes possession? Possession includes not only having a prescription drug physically on your person (in your pocket, bag, or elsewhere) but also having awareness of its presence and its illegal nature, as well as demonstrating intent to control it.

If convicted of illegally possessing prescription drugs like Oxycontin or Vicodin, you may face penalties such as:

• First offenses: Fines of up to $5,000 and one year in prison.
• Subsequent offenses: Harsher penalties with extended incarceration periods.

Law enforcement and arresting officers in Mercer are diligent in ensuring offenders face maximum punishment, making strong legal support essential to fighting these charges.

How a Criminal Lawyer Can Help You

When facing prescription drug charges, partnering with an experienced Mercer criminal lawyer, like those at Logue Law Group, is key to protecting your rights. Our attorneys have successfully defended countless cases involving prescription drug charges, using thorough research and informed defense strategies to seek the best possible outcomes.

Some Ways We Can Help:

• Challenging Evidence: Many cases can hinge on the legality of police searches. If proper procedures weren’t followed, evidence may be dismissed.
• Advocating for Alternatives: For clients struggling with addiction, our attorneys can advocate for alternatives like rehabilitation programs over incarceration.
• Comprehensive Defense: We meticulously examine every element of your case, from your arrest circumstances to the validity of the charges against you.

Our team of experienced Mercer DUI attorneys and criminal defense lawyers will stand beside you every step of the way to ensure your rights are fully protected.

Taking Proactive Action

If you have been charged with a prescription drug crime in Mercer, acting quickly can make a significant difference in your case. Early legal intervention allows your criminal lawyer to have more opportunities to reduce or dismiss your charges.

Logue Law Group’s attorneys have built a reputation for skill, diligence, and dedication in handling prescription drug charges. Mercer DUI attorneys believe in providing compassionate representation while fighting vehemently to protect your rights.

Contact us today for a consultation by calling 844.PITT.DUI or reaching out to us online. We proudly serve clients in Mercer and surrounding areas, as well as West Virginia. Don’t wait– the sooner you take action, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome.