Florida Forging Prescription Drugs Lawyer
Prescription drug forgery is a serious offense in Florida, carrying severe penalties. It involves creating, altering, or using a forged prescription to obtain controlled substances. With the ongoing opioid crisis, law enforcement agencies and prosecutors are particularly zealous in pursuing these cases, sometimes overzealous. If you are facing charges related to forging prescription drugs, The Baez Law Firm offers equally zealous defense to match and beat the prosecution at their own game. Contact our Florida forging prescription drugs lawyers for immediate assistance.
What Constitutes Prescription Drug Forgery?
Prescription drug forgery can take various forms, including:
- Creating a Fake Prescription: This involves producing a counterfeit prescription pad or form, complete with a forged doctor’s signature and other necessary details.
- Altering a Legitimate Prescription: This occurs when someone changes the details on an existing prescription, such as the dosage or the number of refills.
- Using Stolen Prescription Pads: In some cases, individuals may be accused of stealing blank prescription pads from healthcare providers and filling them out fraudulently.
- Using Someone Else’s Prescription: Obtaining medication by presenting a prescription that belongs to another person is also considered a crime.
Legal Penalties for Prescription Drug Forgery
Florida law classifies prescription drug forgery as a felony. The specific penalties can vary based on the circumstances of the case and the individual’s prior criminal history, but they are all potentially severe. Possible consequences for a third-degree felony include up to five years in prison, five years of probation, and a fine of up to $5,000. If the offense involves a Schedule I or II controlled substance, it can be charged as a second-degree felony, with sentences including up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation, and a fine of up to $10,000.
Regardless of the penalties imposed, a conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect your employment opportunities, professional licenses, and overall reputation. An experienced healthcare criminal defense attorney can help you fight the charges or negotiate a satisfactory outcome that avoids these harsh punishments.
Defenses Against Prescription Drug Forgery Charges in Florida
Facing a prescription drug forgery charge can be daunting, but there are several defenses that an experienced criminal defense attorney can explore:
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that you did not have the intent to defraud can be a viable defense. For example, if you mistakenly altered a prescription without intending to obtain medication illegally.
- Mistaken Identity: In some cases, the accused may not be the person who committed the alleged forgery. Proving mistaken identity can lead to an acquittal.
- Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence, such as questioning the validity of the forensic analysis or the credibility of witnesses, can be crucial in building a strong defense.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime that you otherwise would not have committed, entrapment could be a valid defense.
The Importance of Legal Representation
If you are charged with forging prescription drugs, seeking legal representation immediately is essential. A skilled Florida criminal defense attorney can analyze the evidence against you, reviewing the prosecution’s case to identify weaknesses and potential defenses. They can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or secure a plea deal that minimizes penalties. And, of course, an attorney can represent you in court, from arguing pre-trial motions to get charges dismissed to providing a robust defense during trial to achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
At The Baez Law Firm, we understand the complexities and challenges involved with prescription drug forgery cases. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for your future. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Call us today at 800-588-BAEZ or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
Forging prescription drugs is a serious crime in Florida with significant legal consequences, but with the right legal representation, you can navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system and work toward a favorable outcome. If you are in need of a dedicated and experienced criminal defense attorney in Florida, reach out to The Baez Law Firm for guidance and support from a highly skilled team of experienced and successful defense lawyers.
