Some of the most common types of drug crimes in Utah involve the illegal use of prescription medications. Law enforcement officers, pharmacists, and doctors often disagree about how crimes related to prescription drug abuse should be prosecuted.
Possession of an altered or forged prescription found in 58-37-8-(2)(a)(iii) prohibits any person from knowingly and intentionally possessing an altered or forged prescription or written order for a controlled substance.
Crimes related to a forged or altered prescription can involve procuring or attempting to procure a drug illegally by
The most commonly abused prescription pills include Oxycontin, Lortab, Vicodin, and Percocet. Related offenses include obtaining prescriptions from several different doctors (often called "doctor shopping").
If you were charged with possession of an altered or forged prescription or written order, a class B misdemeanor, contact an experienced Utah criminal defense attorney at Brown, Bradshaw & Moffat, LLP, in Salt Lake City, Utah.
We represent clients on a variety of drug offenses including presenting an altered or forged prescription, obtaining a prescription under false pretenses, or doctor shopping. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Call (801) 532-5297 today.
The crime of possession of an altered or forged prescription or written order requires proof beyond all reasonable doubt of the following elements:
Convictions for possession of an altered or forged prescription can carry severe consequences. These violations are punishable as class B misdemeanors for first convictions, class A misdemeanors for second convictions, and third-degree felony offenses for third or subsequent convictions.
Depending on the grade of the alleged offense, a person who is convicted could receive any of the following maximum sentences:
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Diversion Control Division — Find publications and manuals related to prescription drug crimes on this website. It also lists criminal cases against doctors and provides answers to questions about a number of prescription questions.
If you were arrested for allegedly possessing a forged or altered prescription in Utah, you should exercise your right to remain silent until you have the opportunity to contact Brown, Bradshaw & Moffat, LLP.
Our Salt Lake City criminal defense attorneys represent individuals in communities all over the greater Salt Lake County area.
Call (801) 532-5297 or fill out an online contact form today to have our lawyers review your case and discuss all of your legal options during a free initial consultation.
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