Baltimore, MD Prescription Fraud Lawyers

Attorneys Defending Clients Against Prescription Fraud Charges in Baltimore, Maryland

In Maryland, prescription fraud is an area of significant concern for the government, even though new laws have been passed to try to reduce these offenses. This type of fraud involves various deceptive practices that people may use to obtain controlled substances such as Oxycodone or Xanax illegally and without a legitimate medical need. For people who are facing prescription fraud charges, it is crucial to understand the severe penalties that they may face and the necessity of a robust legal defense.

At Silverman Thompson, our attorneys can provide a strong defense against drug crime charges involving prescription medications. These cases may also involve charges of drug possession or possession with intent to distribute. We can advise clients on the best options for resolving these cases successfully, and we will fight to protect the rights of people who may be struggling with addiction or who have been falsely accused of crimes.

Prescription Fraud Charges in Maryland

Maryland's prescription fraud statute criminalizes the act of obtaining prescriptions through fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation. Its broad language enables the state to prosecute various actions, such as:

• Forging signatures to acquire prescriptions
• Obtaining prescriptions under false pretenses
• Visiting multiple healthcare providers to obtain prescriptions

The issue of overprescription and addiction has prompted legislation across the United States to try to reduce the number of prescription fraud cases. In Maryland, the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) has been implemented to track the prescription and distribution of controlled substances. Authorized users in Maryland have access to data from prescribers and pharmacists. Prescribers are required to review the previous four months of PDMP data before initiating new opioid treatments.

The use of internet communication to share patient information between healthcare providers has allowed prescribers to identify incidents of doctor shopping and take steps to curtail overprescription. Additionally, insurance companies may leverage their access to data related to millions of claims, and they may detect instances of fraud and report them to law enforcement.

There are multiple types of prescription drugs that are classified as controlled substances. Attempts to obtain these medications through fraudulent means can result in prescription fraud charges. Medications that may be addressed in these cases include:

• Hydrocodone, also known as Vicodin
• Oxycodone, also known as OxyContin or Percocet
• Morphine
• Codeine
• Oxymorphone
• Other opioids
• Antidepressant drugs like Xanax or Valium
• Stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin
• Sedatives like phenobarbital or Seconal
• Sleep aids like Ambien or Lunesta

In addition to people who obtain fraudulent prescriptions to obtain controlled substances, medical providers or others involved in these cases could face prescription fraud charges. Doctors, dentists, or others who write prescriptions may be accused of issuing prescriptions that were not medically necessary. Pharmacists may be accused of dispensing drugs without prescriptions or without confirming that prescriptions were valid. Others with access to medications, such as nurses or staff members in medical facilities, may be charged with drug diversion.

People who are convicted of violating Maryland's prescription fraud statute will face a maximum penalty of two years in prison and/or a $1,000 fine. Often, people who are charged with prescription fraud will also face related offenses, such as felony possession with intent to distribute. Additional charges can significantly increase the potential jail time that a person may face if they are convicted, underscoring the importance of working with a strong criminal defense team to address these charges.

Contact Our Baltimore Prescription Fraud Attorneys

The criminal defense attorneys at Silverman Thompson have handled numerous cases involving forged prescriptions both at the state and federal levels. Our team includes former state and federal prosecutors, and we have the knowledge and experience needed to provide an aggressive defense against these serious charges. Get the legal help you need by contacting our Baltimore, MD prescription fraud defense lawyers at 410-385-2225 and scheduling a free consultation.