Prescription drug fraud takes many forms. The one thing they have in common is that the consequences of a conviction are severe. Working with an experienced Seattle criminal defense attorney is in your best interest if you are a healthcare professional charged with prescription drug fraud. An attorney develops a defense strategy using various legal challenges to give you the best chance of beating prescription drug fraud charges.
Overview of Prescription Drug Fraud Charges in Washington State
Prescription drug fraud involves illegally distributing or obtaining prescription medications. It may involve a medical provider or healthcare professional. Patients and other parties may be involved in the fraudulent activity.
Prescription drug fraud under Washington law includes, but is not limited to:
- Forging prescriptions and/or stealing prescription pads
- Doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions)
- Impersonating someone to obtain prescription drugs
- Illegally distributing or giving away prescription medications
- Filling controlled substances before the due date
- Stealing prescription drugs
- Writing prescriptions for Schedule II, III, or IV drugs for a doctor’s personal use
- Possession of controlled substances without a valid prescription
Prescription drug fraud is a problem in many communities. Washington law enforcement and courts take these charges seriously. Contact an attorney immediately if you are arrested. Do not answer questions or make a statement without a lawyer present.
What Are the Penalties for Prescription Drug Fraud in Washington?
A conviction for prescription drug fraud may include significant fines and imprisonment. Depending on the severity of the offense, you could spend several years in prison. Fines can be a few thousand dollars up to $25,000.
The collateral consequences of a conviction for prescription drug fraud can be far-reaching. You have a permanent criminal record, which can impact everything from your employment and housing to child custody and visitation. Your professional license may be suspended or revoked if you are a healthcare professional. Even if you get your professional license back, your reputation is damaged.
Potential Defenses to Prescription Drug Fraud Charges in Washington
A skilled criminal defense attorney analyzes the evidence and circumstances of your case. They use various legal challenges and defense tactics to develop your defense. Potential defenses to prescription drug fraud include:
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecutor must prove each of the legal elements beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney challenges the evidence and presents evidence to raise reasonable doubt. In some cases, insufficient evidence could lead to a dismissal of charges. If a plea agreement is in your best interest, your attorney may argue that there is a lack of evidence to reduce charges.
Valid Prescription
You may have had a valid prescription for the medication. If so, that is a strong defense to the charges.
Illegal Search and Seizure
Police officers must follow the law. If they found evidence during an unlawful search, your attorney may be able to have the evidence deemed inadmissible in court.
Lack of Intent
There must be intent to commit fraud. You may argue that you made an honest mistake.
Entrapment
Law enforcement officers cannot pressure you to commit a crime you would not have done so unless you were coerced. Therefore, the charges may be dropped if you were coerced into committing a crime.
A strong defense is crucial to protect your future and your freedom. Work with a skilled lawyer to fight the criminal charges.
Contact Our Office to Speak With a Seattle Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are being investigated for drug fraud or have been arrested, contact Jennifer Horwitz Law to speak with our Seattle criminal defense attorney. You must mount a solid defense to protect your rights and freedom as soon as possible.