Prescription Fraud Attorney in Jacksonville

Your Trusted Team for Prescription Fraud Defense in Jacksonville

If you face allegations related to prescription drug fraud in Jacksonville, the process can feel overwhelming and uncertain. At Law Office of Russell B. McCormick, PA, we stand with you to make the legal experience less daunting and ensure clear options at every step. 

Led by a former prosecutor with extensive knowledge of criminal cases, our office provides strategic legal counsel and ongoing support. We offer 24/7 availability, flexible payment plans, and free consultations so you always have access to a prescription fraud attorney when you need answers most.

Contact the Law Office of Russell B. McCormick, PA now for a free consultation with a prescription fraud attorney in Jacksonville. Call us at (904) 353-0436 or fill out our online form—We are available 24/7 and provide bilingual services.

Understanding Prescription Fraud Laws in Florida

In Florida, prescription fraud is a broad term that encompasses a number of different criminal offenses related to the illegal acquisition of prescription drugs. These crimes are defined under several key statutes, primarily Florida Statutes (F.S.) § 893.13 and § 831.30. 

A skilled Jacksonville prescription fraud lawyer understands that the prosecution can choose from a number of charges, each with its own set of elements and penalties.

The most common acts that are prosecuted as prescription fraud include:

• Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud (F.S. § 893.13(7)(a)9): It is unlawful to acquire or obtain, or attempt to acquire or obtain, possession of a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, subterfuge, or deception. This is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
• "Doctor Shopping" (F.S. § 893.13(7)(a)8): This is a specific form of prescription fraud where a person knowingly withholds information from a practitioner about having received a prescription for the same or a similar drug from another practitioner within the last 30 days. This is also a felony offense with severe penalties.
• Forging or Altering a Prescription (F.S. § 831.30): This offense is for falsely making, altering, or forging a prescription for a medicinal drug. If the forgery is for a controlled substance, it is a felony. A first offense for forging a prescription for a non-controlled substance is a second-degree misdemeanor, but a second offense becomes a first-degree misdemeanor.
• Illegal Possession of a Prescription Form (F.S. § 893.13(7)(a)13): It is a first-degree misdemeanor to possess a prescription form that has not been completed and signed by a practitioner. A second offense is a third-degree felony.

Our firm’s comprehensive knowledge of drug crime statutes and their application is crucial to building a strong defense and achieving the best possible outcome for our clients. As a dedicated prescription fraud attorney in Jacksonville, we will meticulously examine the evidence to find any weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Conviction in Florida

A conviction for prescription fraud in Florida can lead to severe and life-altering penalties. The consequences are far-reaching and can impact your life for decades to come, making it imperative to have a powerful defense from a prescription fraud attorney in Jacksonville. 

The severity of the punishment depends on the class of the crime, which can range from a misdemeanor to a serious felony.

• Jail or Prison Time: A third-degree felony conviction, such as for obtaining a controlled substance by fraud, can result in up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. A first-degree misdemeanor can result in up to one year in jail.
• Fines: In addition to any jail or prison time, the court will order you to pay substantial fines, with some drug offenses carrying mandatory minimum fines of thousands of dollars.
• Probation: A person convicted of a felony may be sentenced to a period of probation, during which they must adhere to strict conditions, such as random drug testing and community service.
• Loss of Civil Rights: A felony conviction in Florida results in the immediate and permanent loss of certain civil rights, including the right to own or possess a firearm. Your right to vote is also lost, though it can be restored.
• Professional License Revocation: This is one of the most devastating collateral consequences of a prescription fraud conviction. Professionals such as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists can have their licenses suspended or revoked, effectively ending their careers.
• Reputational Damage: The social stigma of a conviction is profound and can make it difficult to find a job or maintain personal relationships.
• Driver's License Suspension: A conviction for a drug offense in Florida will result in a mandatory two-year driver's license suspension.

A skilled Jacksonville prescription fraud lawyer will work to help you avoid these devastating consequences and protect your professional and financial future.