Drug Defense Attorneys in Gilbert AZ can Help in Prescription Fraud Cases
Misrepresenting oneself to a pharmacist or doctor or lying in order to obtain drugs from a physician are both examples of fraud. In some cases, physicians who illegitimately prescribe drugs can face prescription fraud charges as well. Drugs such as stimulants, opiates and depressants are listed as controlled substances by states and by the federal government. Below is additional information on prescription fraud and on how Drug Defense Attorneys in Gilbert AZ can help clients.
Doctor Shopping
Doctor shopping is a common form of prescription fraud. Doctors can only prescribe so much medication; if a person visits different doctors and fails to advise them of other prescriptions just so they can get more drugs, they are committing fraud.
Sufferers of chronic pain who are addicted to pain medication often engage in doctor shopping to get more drugs. Nurses and hospital workers often find themselves in these cases because of an addiction, or because they want to get drugs to sell to other people.
Other Kinds of Prescription Fraud
• Stealing a prescription pad and forging a physician’s signature
• Using computers to make fake prescriptions
• Calling in prescriptions as if one is a doctor
• Altering the quantity on a prescription
Physicians can face fraud charges for issuing prescriptions outside the normal scope of practice, or for illegitimate reasons. Depending on the state in which a case is prosecuted, fraud can be considered a felony or a misdemeanor. The law firm of Janet R. Feeley L.L.C. can help clients mount a defense, no matter the severity of the charges.
Defenses to Prescription Fraud
Defendants can use all the traditional defenses in prescription fraud cases, such as illegal search, defective warrant and constitutional law violations. Doctors can use a ‘good faith’ defense if a patient withholds information that would have caused the doctor to not issue a prescription.
Sentencing
Many states use dispositions and alternative measures such as diversion programs and drug courts for first offenses. In these cases, charges can be dismissed as long as the defendant successfully completes the program.
If someone is facing drug charges, it is important for them to speak to Drug Defense Attorneys in Gilbert AZ. By calling a lawyer as soon as possible, a defendant can secure their future. For those facing prescription fraud charges, Drug Defense Attorneys in Gilbert AZ can provide legal help and case-specific advice. Visit website to learn more.
