Call (440) 471-7784 for Experienced & Dedicated Legal Representation
Prescription drugs are an important part of the medical industry, providing pain relief and alleviate symptoms for millions of patients throughout the United States. Unfortunately, these controlled substances are highly addictive, resulting in a plague of abuse and even crimes over the past several years. From possessing a prescribed medicine without a doctor’s prescription to acts involving prescription drug fraud, these type of drug crimes are punishable by prison time, fines, and even a permanent criminal record.
If you have been charged with a prescription drug crime in Ohio, our Cleveland criminal defense lawyer at Patituce & Associates can protect your rights and future. With more than 70 years of legal experience, we understand what it takes to get the most favorable results possible. Let us fight for you and help you get back on the right path. Contact a Cleveland prescription drug defense lawyer today for a free initial consultation.
Ohio Prescription Drug Crimes & Penalties
Crimes involving prescribed medication mainly depend on the type of controlled substance in question. Ohio classifies controlled substances in five schedules—Schedule 1 being the most serious, while Schedule V is the least serious. While many prescription drugs fall under Schedule II (e.g. codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, morphine, GHB, etc.), other medications are categorized as Schedule III (e.g. ketamine), Schedule IV (e.g. Xanax, Ritalin, Valium), and Schedule V.
Possession of a Schedule II narcotic without a prescription is considered a fifth-degree felony, punishable by a maximum prison sentence of 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500. If the amount is less than five times the bulk amount, it is a third-degree felony, which carries a prison sentence of up to five years and a maximum fine of $10,000. If the amount is the same or surpasses the bulk amount, but is less than five times the bulk, it is a second-degree felony that results in a maximum prison term of eight years and a fine no more than $15,000. If the amount is the same or surpasses five times the bulk amount, it is a first-degree felony, punishable by a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a maximum fine of $20,000.
Unlawful possession of a Schedule III, IV, or V controlled substance is a first-degree misdemeanor, which carries a maximum jail sentence of 180 days and a fine of up to $1,000. However, if you were previously convicted of a drug crime, the crime is a fifth-degree felony.
Prescription drug fraud means gaining access to prescribed medications through fictitious and dishonest means. Common types of this type of fraud include forging a prescription, misrepresenting your personal information to obtain a prescription, illegal processing of drug documents, illegal dispensing of drug samples, and doctor shopping. Most of these offenses are considered felonies.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today!
It is imperative to obtain legal counsel from an experienced and skilled lawyer when facing these harsh penalties. Our goal at Patituce & Associates is to either get your entire case dismissed or reduce the charges and/or penalties you face. Do not wait and let the legal process take its course and hire our Cleveland criminal defense attorney immediately.
Contact us and discuss your case with our legal team today.