If you or someone you know has been charged with giving away prescription drugs or selling them illegally, it can be overwhelming. As daunting and uncertain as the process may feel right now, it is important to understand your rights and the potential consequences associated with this type of offense in California.
In this blog post, we will go over some questions frequently asked by those faced with a prescription drug charge. Specifically, inquiring into what can happen if they give their own legitimate prescriptions to friends.
What Are the California Prescription Drug Laws?
California is taking serious steps to combat its ongoing opioid epidemic. The state has enacted a set of prescription drug laws aimed at reducing the over-prescribing of these potentially dangerous medications.
Under these laws, doctors must adopt more conservative practices when prescribing opioids and other controlled substances to their patients. Additionally, pharmacists are required to report any suspicious activities, such as multiple prescriptions for the same drug from different doctors.
These measures are all toward one goal, which is to keep Californians safe and healthy. By enforcing stricter regulations on prescription drugs, the state is hoping to save countless lives from the grips of addiction.
The Potential Consequences for Giving Prescription Drugs to Friends in California
It may seem harmless to give a friend some of your prescription medication, especially if they are in pain or experiencing similar symptoms. However, in the state of California, this act can have serious consequences.
Sharing prescription drugs with others, even friends, is considered illegal and could result in criminal charges. This may include fines, probation, and even imprisonment. Additionally, giving medication to someone else can have unintended health consequences if the recipient has an underlying medical condition or is taking other medications that could interact negatively with the prescription drug.
It is important to prioritize your own health and the well-being of others by only taking medication prescribed directly to you by a licensed healthcare professional.
How an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help with Prescription Drug Charges in California
If you're facing prescription drug charges in California, it can be an extremely stressful and overwhelming experience. However, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Prescription drug charges can range from simple possession to distribution and trafficking, all of which carry hefty penalties, including fines, jail time, and even a permanent criminal record. Your defense attorney can work to challenge the prosecution's evidence, negotiate a plea deal, or even have the charges dropped altogether.
For more information about what to do if you’re facing drug charges for giving your prescription drugs to a friend, give Appel & Morse a call at (805) 467-6060 or contact us online today for a free consultation with our experienced prescription drug crimes defense attorneys in Fresno.