Prescription Fraud

Michigan Prescription Fraud Attorneys Representing Clients in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Throughout Michigan

Both healthcare providers and individuals may be charged with prescription fraud. In Michigan and elsewhere in the U.S., healthcare providers and medical professionals are required to exercise diligence and care when prescribing medications to patients. On the other hand, an individual who fraudulently obtains a prescription for a schedule II narcotic such as Oxycontin or Vicodin may be charged with prescription fraud. At Grabel & Associates, our Michigan drug crimes attorneys fight vigorously on behalf of our clients, seeking to obtain the best possible outcome.

Common Drugs Involved in Prescription Fraud

Some of the most common drugs, which are involved in prescription fraud today, include:

• Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine)
• Oxycontin (oxycodone)
• Ritalin (methylphenidate)
• Demerol (meperidine)
• Vicodin (hydrocodone)
• Valium (diazepam)
• Xanax (alprazolam)

How Individuals Commit Prescription Fraud

"Doctor shopping" is a common method of obtaining prescription drugs, whereby an individual visits various doctors in order to obtain narcotics, which are strictly controlled. Physicians are limited in regards to how much of a narcotic drug, such as those listed above, may be prescribed to a patient. Additionally, an individual may steal a prescription pad and write out a fraudulent prescription. Our Michigan drug crime defense lawyers know that those who are convicted on charges of prescription fraud may face serious criminal penalties.

Medical Professionals and Prescription Fraud

Healthcare providers including doctors, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists must take extreme caution when writing out a prescription. When a mistake is made or a medicine is prescribed to a patient who does not need it, you may face felony charges for prescription fraud. Physicians who prescribe medications what are outside the normal or usual course of practice may also be charged with a criminal offense.

Many patients are legitimately prescribed Oxycontin, Vicodin, and other highly addictive pain medications as a course of treatment following an accident, surgery, or other circumstances, which cause pain. Unfortunately, they may then become addicted to these medications, and require more to obtain the same "high" they initially felt with a lower dosage.

Penalties for Prescription Drug Fraud

Penalties for forging a prescription form or obtaining a prescription in a fraudulent manner can be as harsh as those handed down for possession, distribution, and other drug crime charges. If convicted, you may face substantial fines and jail/prison time, along with a permanent criminal record. Medical professionals may also face substantial jail time, fines, and loss of their medical license. This is a felony offense, which is punished harshly in the state of Michigan.

Consult With an Aggressive Attorney Immediately

In Michigan (particularly in the Detroit area), prescription fraud and related crimes are often investigated by special task forces, which have been put in place specifically for this purpose. Often times, individuals and healthcare providers face federal charges, which mean more severe penalties if convicted. It is critical that you take action now to protect your rights!

At Grabel & Associates, we have the skill, experience, and aggressive, dedicated approach essential to providing our clients with exceptional results. Contact our office today at 1-800-342-7896; we are available 24/7.