New York City Prescription Drug Lawyer
Virtually everyone understands that using illegal street drugs is a criminal offense that can lead to serious penalties and a lifetime of negative effects. However, it is equally important to realize that improper use of prescription medications can pose similar dangers to those involved.
If you are facing allegations of a criminal conduct related to substances of this type, a New York City prescription drug lawyer is precisely the ally you need. Get in touch with a distinguished drug defense attorney, and know that you are in capable hands.
Alarming Rise in Prescription Drug-Related Crime
Prescription drug abuse has escalated in recent years, with many parts of the country declaring the situation to have reached near-epidemic proportions. New York has been no exception to the problem, with afflicted individuals hailing from all socioeconomic categories. Some of the most frequently abused prescription medications include:
- Oxycodone
- Hydrocodone
- Fentanyl
- Meperidine
- Amphetamines
- Diazepam
- Hydromorphone
- Steroids
When taken on their own and as directed by a treating physician, these drugs can prove extremely beneficial. However, when taken under inappropriate or inadvisable circumstances, prescription medications rival illegal drugs in their potential to cause profound, even deadly harm.
Categories of Criminal Charges Stemming from Prescription Drug Use
There are a number of ways that improper use of prescription medications can yield serious criminal charges. Depending on the surrounding facts, convictions in this realm have the ability to yield extremely severe penalties. Frequently charged offenses related to prescription drugs in New York include:
- Forgery of prescriptions, as described by New York Penal Law §170.10 criminal sale of prescription by pharmacist or practitioner, as outlined in New York Penal Law §220.65
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Prescription fraud
- Illegal possession of prescription medications
- Trafficking in prescription drugs, pursuant to New York Penal Law §220.77
- Driving while ability impaired by prescription medication, as prohibited by New York Vehicle and Traffic Law §1192
High Stakes for Defendants in Prescription Drug-Related Cases
Those accused of any of the offenses listed above must make no mistake. The ramifications of a conviction can be truly life-altering. From lengthy prison stays to costly fines to mandatory terms of probationary supervision, formal sentencing for offenders is routinely very harsh.
Furthermore, the ancillary implications of a felony record, including the inability to secure gainful employment, retain professional licenses, and enjoy a solid reputation in the community can follow offenders for the rest of their lives.
Modes of Defense Against Prescription Drug Allegations
Though it is understandable for panic, confusion, and resignation to set in once criminal charges in this realm have been levied, it is critical for accused individuals to remember that they are entitled to a zealous legal defense.
The state is required to prove all elements of each allegation beyond a reasonable doubt, a task that can be made very difficult by the exclusion of evidence that was unconstitutionally seized or improperly interpreted.
An experienced New York City prescription drug attorney understands what it takes to prevail in cases of this nature and is prepared to aggressively advocate for each client served.
Seeking the Assistance of a New York City Prescription Drug Attorney
If you have been accused of committing a criminal offense related to the use, abuse, trafficking, or distribution of prescription medications, do not delay in asserting your rights. The help of a New York prescription drug lawyer is vital to protecting your freedom and your future. Contact our office to get started.