Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs

Prescription Drug Offense Attorney

Prescription Drug Defense Lawyer

Did you know that in the State of Alabama, it is illegal to possess any controlled substance listed in the state’s Schedules I through V or to get such a substance by fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation? The prohibited drugs include many common prescription drugs, such as:

• Oxycodone (Oxycontin, Percodan and Percocet)
  Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
• Opium, morphine, methadone and related drugs (such as Dilaudid)
• Amphetamines and related drugs (including Dexadrine and Desoxyn)
• Tetrahydrocannabinoids (THC), nabilone and dronabilol (Marinol, Cesamet)
• Benzodiazepines (Valium, Librium, Xanax, and Rophynol)
• Methylphenidates (Attention deficit disorder drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta and Attentin)

Penalty for Possession of Prescription Drugs in Alabama

Possessing prescription medication without a valid prescription in Alabama carries serious consequences. It is classified as a Class C felony, punishable by one to ten years in state prison and fines of up to $15,000. This offense is taken seriously by the law, and those found guilty may face significant penalties.

In addition to the potential prison time and fines, individuals convicted of possessing prescription drugs without a valid prescription may also face other long-term consequences. The loss of one’s driver’s license, the right to vote, and the right to own a firearm are among the possible ramifications. These collateral consequences can have a lasting impact on various aspects of a person’s life.

Furthermore, a conviction for possessing prescription medication without a valid prescription can result in the loss of job opportunities and professional licenses. This can create significant challenges in securing future employment and may hinder career advancement. It is crucial to understand that the implications of such a conviction extend beyond the legal realm and can affect one’s personal and professional life.

Being charged with possession of prescription medication in Alabama can have serious legal consequences. In Alabama, if you are found in possession of prescription medication without a valid prescription for the correct substance and dosage, you may be charged with either felony possession of a controlled substance or misdemeanor possession of prescription medication. Even possessing just one pill without a valid prescription can lead to a felony charge.

Having a valid prescription can help your case, but if you do not have it on you when confronted by law enforcement, it is crucial to contact a local attorney to provide that information to the district attorney’s office to potentially have the case dismissed. It is important to always keep your prescription with the medication prescribed to avoid being charged.

If you are charged with a felony and do not have a valid prescription, you will need an attorney and may face more serious consequences. In Alabama, possession of medication without a valid prescription is a misdemeanor according to the Alabama Code, and in some cases, the prosecutor may be willing to amend the felony charge to a misdemeanor, particularly if only a small amount of medication is found and you do not have a prior record of drug offenses.

A conviction or plea on misdemeanor possession of prescription medication in Alabama does not automatically result in a suspension of your driver’s license. However, the district attorney’s office is likely to choose to keep the felony controlled substance charge rather than amend it to a misdemeanor in most cases.

Ultimately, the consequences of possessing prescription medication without a valid prescription in Alabama are severe. It is crucial to adhere to the law and ensure that any medication is obtained through the proper channels. If faced with such charges, it is essential to seek legal counsel to understand the potential outcomes and explore available options for defense. Possessing prescription drugs without a valid prescription is a Class C felony in Alabama, with penalties of one to ten years in state prison and up to $15,000 in fines. If charged with illegal drug trafficking, which can carry three years to life in prison, depending on the amount,. Because these are felonies, those convicted also face loss of their license, loss of the right to vote or own a firearm, loss of job opportunities or professional licenses, and other consequences.

Why Hire Ferguson & Ferguson

If you have been charged with illegal possession of prescription drugs in Huntsville, Decatur, Hartselle, or Athens, Alabama, you need an experienced defense attorney. Make sure you do not talk to anyone until you have spoken with an attorney. Our attorneys have over 45 years of combined experience representing clients charged with criminal offenses. Our offices are conveniently located in downtown Decatur and Huntsville, Alabama. Contact us today for a free initial consultation at 256-534-3435 or 256-350-7200. Call now.

Huntsville office location:
303 Williams Avenue SW
Suite 321
Huntsville, AL 35801

Decatur Office Location:
211 Oak Street, NE
Decatur, AL 35601