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What qualifies as prescription drug fraud in Georgia?

On Behalf of | Jan 28, 2025 | Criminal Law |

Prescription drug fraud creates major problems in Georgia. People commit this crime when they illegally obtain or share prescription medications like opioids. This type of crime damages communities and carries serious punishments.

What is prescription drug fraud?

Prescription drug fraud involves using lies or tricks to obtain medicine unlawfully. Common methods include faking a doctor’s signature, altering a prescription, or visiting multiple doctors to get the same medicine, known as “doctor shopping.” Doctors who issue prescriptions without a valid medical reason also face legal consequences.

What are Georgia’s laws and punishments?

Georgia enforces strict rules for prescription medications like oxycodone and hydrocodone. Authorities classify these drugs as controlled substances, and violating these rules often results in felony charges. Punishments include prison sentences ranging from one to ten years, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record.

Healthcare workers who commit prescription fraud lose their licenses. Federal charges apply if the case involves government programs like Medicare or Medicaid.

Other consequences of prescription drug fraud

Prescription drug fraud convictions create long-term challenges. These convictions make finding a job, securing housing, or maintaining a professional license difficult. Non-U.S. citizens may face deportation or other immigration-related penalties.

How to fight prescription drug fraud charges

Defendants in prescription drug fraud cases can explore several defense strategies. They can demonstrate a lack of intent, prove the prescription’s validity, or challenge the legality of the evidence if authorities collected it improperly. A skilled lawyer can develop a strong defense tailored to the case.

Prescription drug fraud charges in Georgia carry severe consequences, but proper legal representation and knowledge of the law can make a significant difference. Acting quickly helps protect legal rights and future opportunities.

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