Prescription drugs for medical use may seem less hazardous than illegal substances, but the consequences for fraud are just as severe. The substances may be highly addictive, dangerous for long-term use, and impair your judgment. Prescription fraud in North Carolina includes any false act that serves to divert medicines into the hands of those who do not hold a valid prescription.
Even if you do not take the substance, you can be charged with fraud and will need the help of a skilled Raleigh Prescription Fraud Attorney. Cases that are determined to be unintentional may lead to reduced or dismissed charges. Any fraud that is proven to be a purposeful, deceptive act is automatically considered a felony. Securing legal representation early on in an investigation or immediately after arrest is the best way to ensure your rights are protected and that your side of the story is heard.
The attorneys at Scharff Law Firm in Raleigh know the laws concerning prescription fraud in North Carolina. Our attorneys see how prescription fraud charges affect our clients and their families emotionally, socially, and professionally. We understand the circumstances of a fraud charge may be complex. That’s why our Raleigh Prescription Fraud Lawyers have dedicated our careers to providing a high quality legal defense for those charged with crimes.
Types of Prescription Fraud
Here are some of the more common forms of prescription fraud seen in the court system:
- Posing as a doctor or other licensed healthcare provider for the purpose of obtaining medication
- Stealing prescription medication from a workplace with the intent of distribution or personal use
- Lying to a physician or withholding information to obtain a prescription
- Going to multiple physicians with the same concern for the purpose of receiving multiple prescriptions
- Using forgery to fake a legitimate prescription or otherwise fraudulently obtaining medication – this includes stealing a prescription pad for forgery purposes
- Altering the strength or amount of a medication on a prescription
- Using a false registration number to manufacture and/or distribute a substance
Addicted patients and consumers are not the only ones who may be convicted of prescription fraud charges. Physicians, healthcare facilities, healthcare companies, pharmacists, and others are all subject to prosecution if they do not follow standards for providing prescription drugs.
Being Caught in Prescription Fraud
Technology monitoring prescriptions and medications is becoming more advanced. Agencies who monitor prescription drug channels for fraud often begin their investigations after seeing patterns in prescriptions provided by a physician or used by a patient.
Pharmacists and physicians may also recognize fraud by noticing unusual behaviors, monitoring patient records, and pinpointing any irregularities on prescriptions provided at the pharmacy. With so many different channels for recognizing suspicious signs of fraud, there is also the increased chance for wrongful accusations and charges.
Defending Prescription Fraud Charges
Some prescription fraud charges are legitimate mistakes. Others involve factors that would not be taken into consideration without the representation of an experienced Raleigh prescription fraud attorney. At Scharff Law Firm, we always ask questions about the investigation of fraud. Illegal searches and other unconstitutional evidence may be grounds for dismissal in fraud cases.
Many who engage in purposeful prescription fraud started out with a legitimate health concern and a prescription. Addiction is a real and powerful side effect of some prescription medications. Alternative sentencing can be a solution in these circumstances to provide you with the help needed without imprisonment.
The best way to fight the charges against you for a meaningful and positive outcome is by securing the services of a qualified Raleigh prescription fraud defense attorney. It is often difficult for the prosecution to prove intent to defraud beyond a reasonable doubt. We explore the agencies who investigate you to determine the best defense strategy for your case.
Whatever situation you face, our team is ready to hear your side of the story and ensure your rights are protected throughout your case. Contact our team for a free consultation or to learn more about our firm’s experience with prescription fraud.