Los Angeles Prescription Drug Fraud Lawyers

Prescription Drug Fraud Charges

Sections 11173 and 11153 of the California Health & Safety Code cover the definition of and penalties for prescription drug fraud in California. Because the penalties for this crime are so serious, anyone facing prescription drug fraud charges should immediately contact a Los Angeles drug crime defense attorney for advice and assistance in preparing a solid defense.

Health & Safety Code §11173

Section 1173 of the California Health & Safety Code makes it illegal to obtain or attempt to contain controlled substances by deceit, misrepresentation, fraud, subterfuge or the concealment of a material fact. This also applies to procuring or attempting to procedure the administration of a controlled substance. This section of the code also makes it illegal to affix forged labels to prescription drug containers; make false statements in reports, records, orders or prescriptions; or falsely represent yourself to be a dentist, pharmacist, physician’s assistant, pharmacist or other authorized person in an attempt to obtain controlled substances.

Health & Safety Code §11153

Section 11153 of the California Health & Safety Code covers the responsibilities of physicians and other prescribers when it comes to prescribing controlled substances. The code assigns responsibility for the proper prescribing of these substances to physicians, but it also assigns responsibility to the pharmacist who fills the prescription. This section makes it illegal to prescribe a controlled substance that is not for legitimate medical treatment or authorized medical research. It also makes it illegal to prescribe a controlled substance to an addict unless it is part of an authorized narcotic rehab program or needed for legitimate medical treatment. Possible penalties for violating this portion of the Health & Safety Code include a jail or prison sentence not exceeding one year, a fine not exceeding $20,000, or a combination of a fine and imprisonment.

Doctor Shopping

The term "doctor shopping" refers to visiting several different doctors in an attempt to get prescriptions for controlled substances. Someone who is doctor shopping typically does not tell the new doctor about previous doctors, which qualifies as "concealment of a material fact." Not everyone who engages in this habit is abusing drugs. Doctors often deny accident victims and those with debilitating diseases needed pain medications due to concerns about possible drug abuse. These patients desperately need medication to control the pain and make it possible for them to perform simple tasks. Unfortunately, doctor shopping is illegal under §11173 of the California Health & Safety Code, making it possible for someone who is just seeking some relief from pain to be arrested and charged with prescription drug fraud.

Penalties

Someone charged with prescription drug fraud in California faces the possibility of jail time, probation, court-ordered drug treatment, house arrest and seizure of personal assets. Anyone convicted of this offense must also register as a drug offender, which may make it difficult to get student loans or find employment.

Legal Guidance and Skills You Can Rely On

If you are facing prescription drug fraud charges in California, contact one of the experienced Los Angeles drug fraud defense lawyers at Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP for a free consultation. We understand how overwhelming being charged with a crime can be, which is why we are committed to informing you of all your legal rights and options on top of ensuring that a strong, effective defense is built on your behalf. Call us at 1-866-790-5858 for help defending yourself against these serious charges.

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Los Angeles Drug Crime Defense Lawyer Disclaimer: The prescription drug fraud, doctor shopping, drug possession or other criminal defense information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice, nor the formation of a lawyer or attorney client relationship. Any results portrayed here were dependent on the facts of that case and the results will differ if based on different facts. Please contact a California drug offense defense lawyer or Los Angeles Drug Crime Attorney at our law offices located in Los Angeles and the greater Los Angeles areas. This web site is not intended to solicit clients for matters outside of the State of California.

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