Prescription Drug Charges

Pennsylvania is recognized for maintaining incredibly strict statutes regarding controlled substances. The state enforces heavy penalties for those who violate these laws, with punishments that often include substantial monetary fines and lengthy prison terms. However, many residents are unaware that these stringent regulations apply just as forcefully to prescription medications as they do to illicit street drugs.

The misuse of specific prescription medications has evolved into a widespread and increasingly dangerous problem across the region. If you or a family member has been accused of illegally possessing or acquiring these substances, securing the guidance of a qualified legal professional is essential. The dedicated team at Mountaineer Law Group is ready to defend your rights and protect your reputation in the community. As a dedicated Morgantown criminal lawyer, our group understands the complexities of these cases.

What You Need to Know

Under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, it is a criminal offense to obtain or possess a controlled substance through methods involving fraud, forgery, deception, misrepresentation, or subterfuge. This applies whether the drugs are intended for personal use or for distribution to others.

Criminal charges can arise from actions such as forging a prescription using a stolen physician’s pad or acquiring medications listed under Pennsylvania’s Drug Schedules III, IV, and V, as well as certain Schedule II narcotics.

Possible Offenses Include:

• Unlawfully writing scripts by stealing a legitimate prescription pad from a doctor.
• Illegally acquiring medication by stealing a prescription meant for another individual.
• Buying drugs by altering the quantity or details on a valid prescription.
• Manufacturing counterfeit prescriptions to obtain controlled substances.
• Impersonating a medical professional to authorize refills at a pharmacy.
• Unlawfully selling or distributing prescription medications.
• Medical practitioners themselves can also face prosecution for violating these regulations.

If you are facing any of these allegations, consulting with a Morgantown DUI attorney who is also versed in drug defense can be a critical step in your defense strategy.

What Are Some of the Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs?

In the Morgantown area and throughout Berks County, law enforcement frequently encounters cases involving the abuse of the following medications:

• Morphine
• Codeine
• Adderall and other amphetamines
• Vicodin (hydrocodone)
• Demerol (meperidine)
• Oxycontin (oxymorphone)
• Xanax (alprazolam)
• Valium (diazepam)

What Are The Consequences of a Conviction for Prescription Drug Crimes?

The repercussions of a conviction for prescription drug offenses can be devastating and life-altering. To understand the risk, one must first understand how the law defines “possession.” This legal concept covers more than just holding the drug in your hand; it includes having the substance in a container on your person, in a pocket or purse, or even hidden within a body cavity.

Furthermore, possession charges can be substantiated by proving you had knowledge of the drug’s presence, understood its illegal nature, and had the intent and ability to control it. A knowledgeable Morgantown criminal lawyer can help challenge these definitions in court.

The penalties for the illegal possession of potent painkillers like Vicodin and Oxycontin are significant. For a first-time conviction, you could face fines reaching up to $5,000 and a sentence of up to one year in prison. Repeat offenses often lead to even longer periods of incarceration. Both the arresting officers and the prosecuting authorities are motivated to pursue the maximum allowable punishment for these crimes.

How Can a Prescription Drug Crime Attorney Help You?

Law enforcement agencies are aggressive in their pursuit of drug convictions. At Mountaineer Law Group, our skilled attorneys have built a reputation for successfully defending hundreds of clients against serious prescription drug allegations. Our primary goal is to safeguard the dignity and rights of our clients, providing a vigorous defense throughout the trial process.

Whether you are dealing with charges of trafficking, forgery, or simple possession, you deserve a Morgantown DUI attorney who will fight to secure the most favorable outcome for your situation.

Many of these cases can be won, particularly if the legality of the police search or seizure is successfully challenged. Our experienced defense team is well-versed in identifying procedural errors and will meticulously investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest. Additionally, if your legal troubles stem from an underlying struggle with addiction, we will advocate tirelessly for your enrollment in a rehabilitation program as an alternative to serving time in jail.

Prescription Drug Charges

If you have been arrested on charges related to prescription drugs, do not delay. Contact Mountaineer Law Group immediately. Taking proactive steps to secure legal counsel can significantly improve the ability of your Morgantown criminal lawyer to have your charges reduced or even dismissed.

At our law group, we bring the necessary compassion, experience, and unwavering dedication required for your defense. Call (304) 381-3656 today to schedule your initial consultation or contact us online. We are proud to serve clients in Morgantown, Berks County, and the surrounding areas, as well as West Virginia and Ohio. Don’t face this alone; let a skilled Morgantown DUI attorney from our team help you navigate this difficult time.