Understanding Prescription Drug Fraud in Maryland

Prescription drug fraud is a serious offense in Maryland, carrying significant criminal penalties. Understanding your charges under Maryland law and knowing your rights can greatly impact the outcome of your case.

What is Prescription Drug Fraud?

In Maryland, prescription drug fraud generally involves:

Obtaining prescription drugs through fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation.
Counterfeiting or altering prescriptions.
Concealing material facts or using false identification.
Selling or delivering a prescription drug different from what was ordered.

Relevant Maryland Statutes

Prescription drug fraud offenses are primarily governed by:

Maryland Criminal Law Section 5-701: Prohibits obtaining prescription drugs by fraudulent means, including false prescriptions and misrepresentation.
Maryland Criminal Law Section 8-610: Specifically addresses counterfeiting prescriptions and obtaining prescription drugs by fraud.
Maryland Criminal Law Section 5-702: Prohibits knowingly selling or delivering prescription drugs that differ from what was prescribed.

Potential Penalties

Convictions for prescription drug fraud in Maryland can result in:

Up to 2 years of imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $1,000 for fraudulently obtaining prescriptions (Sections 5-701 and 8-610).
Imprisonment of up to 1 year and/or fines ranging from $100 to $500 for selling drugs different from those prescribed (Section 5-702).

Additionally, healthcare professionals may face the revocation of their professional licenses.

Drug Possession and Associated Penalties in Maryland

Under Maryland Criminal Law Section 5-601, possession of controlled dangerous substances without a valid prescription carries serious penalties:

First conviction: Up to 1 year imprisonment and/or a fine up to $5,000.
Second or third conviction: Up to 18 months imprisonment and/or a fine up to $5,000.
Fourth or subsequent conviction: Up to 2 years imprisonment and/or a fine up to $5,000.

Defending Against Prescription Drug Fraud Charges

Potential defenses against prescription drug fraud charges include:

Lack of Intent: Proving you did not knowingly or intentionally commit fraud.
Mistaken Identity: Establishing you were incorrectly identified as the perpetrator.
Valid Prescription: Demonstrating that the drugs obtained were through a legitimate prescription.

Why Choose FrizWoods

At FrizWoods, our experienced attorneys have successfully defended numerous clients facing prescription drug fraud charges, drug possession charges, felony drug charges, and other criminal offenses. We thoroughly analyze every aspect of your case to build a strong, personalized defense strategy.

Act Now to Protect Your Future

If you're facing charges for prescription drug fraud or misdemeanor possession, your future is at stake. Contact a dedicated Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer at FrizWoods today for a free, confidential consultation and ensure your rights and interests are aggressively protected.