Prescription Fraud Attorney in Hinesville

Protect Your Reputation with a Hinesville Prescription Fraud Attorney

Prescription fraud is a critical legal issue in Hinesville, encompassing the illegal acquisition or distribution of prescription medication or unauthorized writing of prescriptions. In Georgia, drug-related charges can carry serious consequences, including significant fines and imprisonment, making it vital for individuals facing these allegations to understand the relevant state laws.

At Balbo & Gregg, Attorneys at Law, PC, we are well-versed in handling the complexities of prescription fraud cases. Our experienced attorneys provide tailored strategies to navigate these legal challenges, ensuring informed support and focusing on achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.

The implications of a conviction extend beyond legal penalties and affect personal and professional lives. Individuals often face reputation damage, employment loss, and difficulties in future job searches. For healthcare professionals, a conviction could lead to the revocation of medical licenses, emphasizing the importance of a strong defense strategy.

Speak with a knowledgeable Prescription fraud attorney in Hinesville now. Call (866) 580-3089 or reach out online for your free legal consultation

What Is Prescription Fraud Under Georgia Law?

Prescription fraud is broadly defined as the use of deceit, misrepresentation, or subterfuge to obtain prescription drugs unlawfully. Georgia Code § 16-13-43 covers this offense and lists a range of actions that can lead to felony charges, including:

• Falsifying, altering, or forging a prescription
• Impersonating a medical professional to call in a prescription
• Doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors to obtain more prescriptions)
• Using someone else’s prescription or identity
• Possessing prescription drugs without a valid prescription
• Lying to a pharmacist or medical professional to obtain medication

The charges often involve medications classified as controlled substances, including:

• Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)
• Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium)
• Adderall and Ritalin
• Fentanyl
• Codeine

A Hinesville prescription fraud lawyer can analyze every aspect of your case to determine whether the prosecution can prove that your conduct met the threshold for criminal intent or deception under the law.

Penalties for Prescription Fraud in Georgia

Prescription fraud is typically charged as a felony, regardless of the amount of medication involved. The consequences can be severe:

• 1 to 5 years in prison for a first conviction
• 3 to 10 years in prison for a second or subsequent conviction
• Fines of up to $100,000
• Loss of professional licenses for doctors, nurses, pharmacists, or other regulated professionals
• Mandatory drug counseling or rehab
• Felony record, impacting employment, housing, and education opportunities

If the case involves the intent to sell or distribute the drugs, prosecutors may seek trafficking or distribution charges, which carry even harsher penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences.

An experienced Hinesville prescription fraud lawyer works to avoid these outcomes by pursuing reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or a case dismissal wherever possible.

How Prescription Fraud Cases Are Investigated

Prescription fraud cases often involve electronic and physical records, witness statements, surveillance footage, and cooperation from medical professionals or pharmacies. 

Investigations may be conducted by:

• Local law enforcement
• Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI)
• Federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in serious cases