Prescription Drug Possession And Distribution Cases
People often become addicted to prescription medications unintentionally. They initially receive a legal prescription from a doctor but become unable to live without the medication. When the refills run out, they still need the drug and try to obtain it illegally. Because having prescription medication without a legitimate prescription is against the law, these individuals become unwittingly involved in the criminal justice system.
At the Morris County law firm of Hanlon Dunn Robertson, our legal team includes former prosecutors and an attorney certified in criminal trial law by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. Our combination of experience and legal knowledge makes our criminal lawyers formidable both in the courtroom and during negotiations with prosecutors when a client faces a prescription drug charge.
Common Prescription Drug Crimes
Some of the most common prescription drug charges in New Jersey include:
- Possession of five or more doses of a prescription medication without a valid prescription, usually a fourth-degree crime
- Stealing a prescription pad from a doctor, an offense that is often combined with other prescription drug crimes and fraud or forgery, adding up to a third-degree crime
- Forging a drug prescription
- Distributing prescription drugs, which could be charged as a fourth-degree crime if the amount being sold is less than five doses
- Posing as someone else to obtain prescription drugs
The drugs most frequently linked to prescription medication crimes in New Jersey include:
- Fentanyl, morphine, oxycodone and other opioids
- Valium, Xanax and other central nervous system depressants
- Dexedrine, Adderall and other stimulants
Special Programs To Help Those Charged With Prescription Drug Crimes
Individuals charged for the first time with nonviolent prescription drug offenses in New Jersey may be eligible for pretrial intervention (PTI). If accepted into the PTI program, drug crime defendants receive addiction counseling and treatment. They may continue to live at home and work or attend school while under the supervision of the drug court. Individuals who complete their programs successfully may be eligible for dismissal of the prescription drug charges and expungement after a probationary period. Our lawyers advise clients about their eligibility for PTI programs.
Contact Us Today For A Free Consultation
If you face charges involving prescription drugs in New Jersey, our Morris County law firm can help. Our experienced attorneys fight hard for the rights and futures of clients charged with illegal possession of prescription drugs and related crimes. To learn how our attorneys can defend you and seek the best possible outcome in your case, call Hanlon Dunn Robertson in Morristown today. You may also use our online contact form.