Prescription Fraud, Forgery & Doctor Shopping Charges

Dealing with Prescription Fraud, Forgery, and Doctor Shopping Charges

Being charged with prescription fraud, forgery, or doctor shopping can be an overwhelming and scary situation. These types of charges often carry serious penalties like fines or even jail time. But there are options and resources to help you build the strongest legal defense.

Understanding the Charges

Prescription fraud typically refers to intentionally deceiving or misleading a doctor or pharmacist in order to obtain prescription medications. Common examples include:

• Using someone else’s prescription or prescription ID to try to fill or refill a prescription
• Altering a legitimate prescription to try to get more pills or higher doses
• Forging or stealing blank prescription pads and writing fake prescriptions
• “Doctor shopping,” or visiting multiple doctors to get prescriptions for the same or similar medications

All of these actions are illegal under both state and federal law. Charges may include:

• Obtaining a controlled substance by fraud
• Prescription forgery
• Identity theft
• Doctor shopping
• Possession of a forged instrument

The exact laws and penalties vary by state. But possible sentences often involve:

• Years in prison
• Thousands of dollars in fines
• Probation or parole
• Drug counseling or rehab
• Community service

So these charges should always be taken very seriously.

Building Your Defense Strategy

The first step after an arrest is to exercise your right to remain silent until you have legal counsel. Anything you say to the police can potentially be used against you later on.

You should then retain an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Prescription fraud cases can be complex, involving multiple charges across different jurisdictions. An attorney well-versed in these types of cases will be able to:

• Review the details of your case and the evidence against you
• Identify any illegal searches, faulty evidence, or procedural mistakes by law enforcement
• Build defense strategies to fight the charges, such as:
  • You had a valid prescription and reasonably believed you had consent or authorization
  • Someone else used your identity without your knowledge
  • You did not act “knowingly” or “intentionally” to break the law
• Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or diversion programs
• Represent you vigorously in court if a trial becomes necessary

When researching defense lawyers, look for attorneys and firms with specific experience dealing with prescription fraud cases. Be sure to ask about their track record getting charges reduced or dismissed.

Using Diversion Programs to Avoid Conviction

For first-time or non-violent offenders, completing a diversion program can be an alternative to going to trial. These programs allow you to avoid a criminal conviction if you successfully finish all requirements.

Common conditions may involve:

• Drug, alcohol, or mental health counseling or treatment
• Regular drug testing
• Community service hours
• Paying fines, fees, or restitution
• Probation meetings

If you violate any part of the program, though, the original criminal charges will be reinstated and you will go to trial.

An experienced attorney can advise if a diversion program is right for your situation. They can then negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf to help get you enrolled.

Understanding the Consequences of a Conviction

If found guilty at trial, either by verdict or plea deal, you will have a criminal record. This can negatively impact many aspects of your life for years to come.

Beyond jail time, fines, or probation, common consequences include:

• Difficulty finding or keeping a job, especially in healthcare, law enforcement, education, or finance
• Being denied professional licenses needed for certain careers
• Loss of voting rights or ineligibility for jury duty
• Difficulty qualifying for student loans or government assistance programs
• Loss of gun ownership rights
• Limitations on international travel to certain countries
• Child custody issues or loss of parental rights
• Deportation for non-citizens
• Public embarrassment and reputation damage

That’s why building an aggressive legal defense from day one is so critical. An experienced lawyer will advise you on all of your options under the law.

Finding the Right Prescription Fraud Lawyer

Defending prescription fraud charges requires an attorney with specialized knowledge of both criminal defense and drug laws. Be sure to research lawyers’ experience and track records with similar cases.

Useful questions to ask prospective lawyers include:

• How many prescription fraud cases have you handled, and what were the outcomes?
• What are the most common strategies you use to fight these charges?
• Do you have experience getting prescription fraud cases dismissed pre-trial or enrolled into diversion programs?
• If my case may go trial, what is your success rate in getting acquittals?
• Will you personally handle my case or pass it to an associate?

Don’t rush into choosing the first lawyer you talk with. Compare multiple attorneys’ answers to these questions to find the best legal defense.

You can also check online reviews of lawyers and law firms to see testimonials from past clients. Look for consistent themes showing an attorney’s communication skills, legal knowledge, and commitment to clients.

Finding Support Through the Legal Process

Facing criminal charges takes an emotional toll along with the legal uncertainty. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Consider reaching out for support from:

• Family and friends – Share what you’re comfortable with people close to you. Their support can make a big difference.
• Support groups – Joining a group of people facing similar struggles can help you feel less isolated.
• Individual counseling – Talking privately with a therapist or counselor can help process fears and anxiety.
• Religious or spiritual communities – If you belong to a religious or spiritual community, reach out to a leader for moral support.
• Health providers – Your doctor or mental health professional may be able to connect you with helpful resources.

While the legal case itself may last months, having a strong support system can help you get through this challenging time.

Finding Hope in Difficult Circumstances

A prescription fraud arrest undoubtedly represents one of life’s major difficulties. The uncertainty, embarrassment, and potential consequences can feel overwhelming.

But even in the bleakest moments, don’t abandon hope. With an experienced attorney guiding your defense, there are usually options under the law. Diversion programs also offer opportunities for second chances without a conviction on your record.

Focus on taking it one step at a time. Do your own research so you understand the charges and possible penalties. Ask trusted friends or family to help find and pay for a quality lawyer. Show up on time for every court date and meeting with your attorney. Comply fully with any conditions of release before your court date.

While the circumstances seem dire now, this does not have to define your future. An aggressive legal defense, combined with family support and your own determination, can get you through this so you can move forward with life after the case concludes.

There are always alternatives and hope, if you stay committed to fighting for the best possible outcome. With time and effort, you have the power to overcome this challenge.

Resources

• Prescription Fraud: What Is It and What Are the Penalties?
• Prescription Fraud | Justia
• Doctor Shopping | CriminalDefenseLawyer.com
• How to Choose the Right Criminal Lawyer