Prescription Drug Crimes in Hollywood

If you possess a prescription drug without a valid prescription, you may be in violation of the Controlled Substance Act of 1970. In recent years Florida has cracked down on prescription drug abuse in an attempt to address the opioid epidemic, as well as an increase in drug-related activity throughout the state in general. If you face drug charges related to possession or distribution of a prescription drug, contact the Hollywood criminal defense attorneys at Fischer Redavid PLLC. We will protect your rights under Florida law and help you understand your legal options.

Common Prescription Drug Crimes

If you possess, distribute, or traffic prescription drugs, you may be subject to state or federal prosecution. These drugs fall under different schedules and the penalties may depend on the nature of the drug. Some common examples include:

• Schedule II Drugs such as most prescription narcotics and methamphetamines
• Schedule III Drugs, which include ketamine and anabolic steroids
• Schedule IV Drugs, such as benzodiazepines
• Schedule V Drugs, which include limited quantities of prescription narcotics (i.e. Tylenol with codeine)

Prescription drug crimes in Florida fall under other drug possession and trafficking statutes. Examples include:

Simple Possession

These charges may be misdemeanor crimes and depend on the amount on your person. You may face possession charges if you have any amount of prescription drugs on your person without a valid medical prescription.

Possession with Intent to Sell

If you have larger amounts of drugs on your person, you may face charges of possession with intent to sell. This is a felony offense under Florida law and generally carries more severe punishments than simple possession. Drug felony statutes in Florida generally impose minimum jail terms if the amount of drug exceeds a certain threshold. A prosecutor may pursue charges of possession with intent to sell prescription drugs if:

• The amount on your person is greater than what would be considered normal
• Police found paraphernalia or drug packaging materials
• You had large amounts of cash in your possession which would indicate selling

Drug Trafficking

Bringing drugs over state lines constitutes drug trafficking under Florida law, and is often a federal offense. As such, many charged with drug trafficking face felony charges with a maximum imprisonment of 30 years, depending on the amount of prescription drugs involved and prior criminal history.

Possible Penalties for Prescription Drug Crimes

Prescription drug crimes may fall under misdemeanor or felony charges. Penalties vary widely and will depend on a variety of factors, such as prior criminal offenses or the nature of prescription drugs on your person. Misdemeanor charges carry a term of imprisonment up to one year, while felony charges carry jail time of one year or more. Defendants with a prior felony conviction on their records may face enhanced sentencing.

Prescription drug charges may involve jail time, fines, or both. Unfortunately, Florida has some of the strictest drug laws in the nation. This highlights the need for a drug crimes attorney who can help you understand your rights and options throughout the trial process.

In some cases, you may have the option of having your sentence reduced or even dismissed. Other options for legal recourse such as drug court may also exist.

Your Prescription Drug Crimes Attorney

If you’re facing prescription drug charges in Hollywood, you need effective legal representation. The criminal defense attorneys at Fischer Redavid PLLC will help you understand all your legal options and will aim for a reduction in sentencing whenever possible. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and explore your legal options with one of our attorneys.