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Do You Understand Prescription Drug Charges?

On Behalf of | Nov 11, 2021 | Drug Crimes |

The state of Minnesota has harsh penalties for prescription drug charges. However, many people do not know the laws surrounding the handling and use of prescription drugs.

You may think drug charges only apply to illegal substances, but this is not the case.

What are some types of prescription drug charges in Minnesota?

The law regarding prescription medications in this state deals primarily with obtaining the drugs illegally. You can face criminal charges under several circumstances:

  • Trying to get more of your medicine than prescribed
  • Attempting to acquire medication without a valid prescription
  • Using someone else’s prescription
  • Forging a prescription document
  • Stealing a prescription pad with the intent to obtain medicine
  • Giving another person some of your prescribed medicine
  • Misrepresenting your identity when getting a prescription from a pharmacy

What are the punishments for prescription drug charges?

The penalties for prescription medication charges can be severe. Due to the related addiction and dependency problems, the law in Minnesota handles these types of crimes the same way as street drugs. Someone who possesses prescription drugs illegally can face expensive fines and many years in jail.

The nature of your charges and consequences depends on various factors, including the type of drug, the amount transferred or possessed, if you sold the substance to someone and if you have previous drug convictions.

How can you defend prescription drug charges?

Look at the unique circumstances surrounding your charges. Do they stem from moving your prescriptions to a travel container? Did officers search you without a warrant? Were you unaware the medication was in your possession?

Prescription drug charges are serious criminal offenses. It is crucial to understand your legal defense options to protect yourself from the potential lifelong consequences of a conviction.