Get Answers.  Get Results. Criminal Law, DUI, Family Law, Divorce – (205) 737-4696

Get Answers. Get Results. Criminal Law, DUI, Family Law, Divorce – (205) 737-4696

TRAVIS T. JUNEAU

Prescription Drug Laws and Offenses - Tuscaloosa, AL

If you are found in possession of a prescription drug without a lawful prescription, or you are accused of abusing your prescription medication, you could face serious legal consequences. The penalties for prescription drug offenses can vary widely depending on the circumstances of the case, including the type of drug involved, the amount of the drug found, and the intent of the accused. In Alabama, the laws related to prescription drug offenses are strict, and the penalties can be severe.

As a criminal defense attorney in Alabama, Travis Juneau has represented clients who have been charged with various drug offenses. Drug charges can include possession, distribution, trafficking, or manufacturing of prescription drugs. Depending on the nature of the charges, the possible consequences include fines, probation, mandatory drug treatment, loss of driving privileges, and even jail time.

Alabama’s Prescription Drug Offenses, Possible Charges, and Sentences

Prescription drug abuse is a serious issue that affects many people in Tuscaloosa and throughout the state of Alabama. The consequences of being caught with prescription drugs can be severe, and it’s important to understand the laws and penalties associated with these offenses.

In Alabama, there are several types of prescription drug offenses that you can be charged with. The most common offenses include:

  • Possession: Possessing prescription drugs without a valid prescription is illegal in Alabama. This includes drugs such as OxyContin, Percocet, Xanax, and Adderall.
  • Distribution: Distributing prescription drugs to others is also illegal in Alabama. This includes selling, giving away, or sharing prescription drugs with others.
  • Doctor shopping: Doctor shopping involves visiting multiple doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions for the same drug. This is illegal in Alabama and can result in serious consequences.
  • Prescription fraud: Prescription fraud involves altering a prescription or creating a fake prescription to obtain prescription drugs. This is also illegal in Alabama and can result in serious consequences.

The penalties for prescription drug offenses in Alabama vary depending on the severity of the offense and whether or not it’s a first offense. For example, a first-time offender caught with a small amount of prescription drugs may face a misdemeanor charge, which can result in up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $6,000.

However, if you’re caught with a large amount of prescription drugs or are caught distributing prescription drugs, you could face a felony charge. Felony charges carry much harsher penalties, including long-term imprisonment and hefty fines.

If you’re charged with a prescription drug offense in Tuscaloosa, it’s important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. A criminal defense attorney with experience in prescription drug offenses can help you understand your rights and options and can work with you to develop a strong defense strategy.

Possession of Prescription Drugs Without a Prescription

The possession of prescription drugs without a valid prescription is considered illegal in Alabama, as well as the possession of any controlled substance classified under Schedule II, III, IV, or V of the Controlled Substances Act.

Possession of prescription drugs without a valid prescription is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $6,000. If the offender has a prior drug-related conviction, the penalty may be increased to a Class C felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.

Possession of Controlled Substances

Possession of a controlled substance without a valid prescription is a Class C felony in Alabama, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. The penalty may be increased to a Class B felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $30,000 if the amount of the drug involved is large enough to be considered for distribution or trafficking.

Distribution and Trafficking of Prescription Drugs

Distribution and trafficking of prescription drugs in Alabama are considered to be serious crimes, and the penalties can be severe. The sale or distribution of prescription drugs is a Class B felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $30,000. The penalty may be increased to a Class A felony, punishable by up to life in prison and a fine of up to $60,000 if the amount of the drug involved is large enough to be considered trafficking.

Manufacturing or Cultivating Prescription Drugs

The manufacturing or cultivation of prescription drugs is considered to be a serious offense in Alabama, and the penalties can be severe. Manufacturing or cultivating prescription drugs is a Class B felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $30,000. The penalty may be increased to a Class A felony, punishable by up to life in prison and a fine of up to $60,000 if the amount of the drug involved is large enough to be considered trafficking.

What to Do if You’re Charged and How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

If you have been charged with a prescription drug offense in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, it is important to seek legal help immediately. You should never try to handle these charges on your own, as the penalties for conviction can be severe. An Alabama defense attorney can help protect your rights, negotiate a plea agreement, and help minimize the potential consequences of your charges.

We understand how overwhelming it can be to face criminal charges for prescription drug offenses. That’s why we work closely with our clients to ensure they understand the legal process and what to expect. We believe that open and honest communication is key to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.

If you’re facing prescription drug charges in Tuscaloosa or the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We’ll take the time to listen to your story and help you understand your legal options. With our help, you can fight for your future and move forward with confidence.