call today: 

San Diego Prescription Drug Lawyer

Defending Prescription Drug Charges in California | Zentz & Zentz

contact us today
Prescription drug defense lawyers in San Diego can helpthose facing charges of prescription drug possession get the best possible outcome.At Zentz&Zentz Attorneys at Law, we have years of experience defending clients against various types of drug crimes and work hard to protect their rights.

SAN DIEGO Prescription Drug Attorney

Prescription drugs were designed to help people suffering from pain and other health problems; the medicines were approved and supported by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). However, some drugs are also highly addictive, and many people become addicted after taking them as prescribed. People who have developed an addiction to prescription drugs will do just about anything to get more, and it can lead them to commit serious crimes.

Drug addiction has been a severe problem plaguing the nation for years, and it’s essential to understand your rights if you’ve been arrested. In recent years, drug abuse has become a significant problem, and it’s continuing to get worse. Drug overdosesare becoming a widespread cause of death in the country.

This is why prescription drug-related charges are taken so seriously. Unfortunately, they can be some of the most difficult charges to defend against, and that is why, if you are facing these charges, it’s vital to have a highly qualified lawyer in your corner.

We are a full-service law firm that is here to help you with allyour legal needs. We have been defending people just like yourself, who are facing serious drug charges, for years.

Prescription drug crimes in San Diego are continually on the rise. If you were arrested for a drug crime that involves prescription drugs, we could help. We understand the criminal justice system and will fight to protect your rights.

Are Prescription Drugs Different Than Other Illegal Drugs?

Unfortunately, many people don’t understand the legality of using prescription drugs without a prescription. Clients often ask if prescription drugs are different than other illegal drugs. The answer to this question is actually simple. In the eyes of California law, if you don’t have a prescription for the drug you have, then it’s illegal. By this standard, any drug that isn’t prescribed to you and is in your position is illegal and could be cause for an arrest. This applies to narcotic and non-narcotic drugs that may be legal with a prescription but illegal without it.

While all drugs are technically illegal, prescription drug crimes can be some of the most difficult to defend against because they are often complicated to understand. From the court’s perspective, you either have the prescription, or you do not. Because of this, proving you are not guilty can be a challenge without adequate representation.

If you’ve been arrested for drug charges that involve prescription drugs, we can help. We understand the criminal justice system and will fight to protect your rights.

What Drugs Can Constitute Criminal Charges in San Diego?

There are many different types of prescription drugs that can lead to criminal charges in San Diego. To best understand and identify what types of drugs would constitute a criminal charge, here are some of the most common prescription drugs that warrant an arrest:

  • Cocaine
  • Morphine
  • Opium
  • Amphetamine (Adderall)
  • Methamphetamine (Desoxyn)
  • Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
  • Vicodin

More than just these drugs can lead to criminal charges in San Diego. In fact, if you are driving while under the influence of certain cough or cold medications, you could be charged with driving while under the influence.If you were arrested for a drug crime involving prescription medications or are being accused of a drug crime involving prescription medications, we can help you with every step of the process.

What Prescription Drug Crimes Can Look Like

Prescription drug crimes can include a variety of offenses. These are very serious charges that can result in a conviction. That’s why you need an experienced drug defense lawyer to help with your case. The drug you had in your possession will determine your charges.

Here are some of the most common prescription drug charges that could warrant an arrest:

  • Possession or use of prescription drugs that were not prescribed to you
  • Prescription drug trafficking (selling, buying, etc.)
  • Prescription drug fraud

Understanding the differences between a misdemeanor and a felony can make all the difference in your case. For example, if you were arrested for prescription drug charges, we would look at every detail of your case to determine whether your charges are a felony or misdemeanor.

Possession or Use of Prescription Drugs That Were Not Prescribed to You

Using prescription drugs that were not prescribed to you can be considered a criminal offense in San Diego. Therefore, if you are caught using or possessing these medications without a valid prescription, you could be facing criminal charges.

California law recognizes three different types of possession: actual, constructive, or joint. These three types can determine if you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony charge.

  1. What Is Actual Possession?
    A charge of actual possession says that the drug was on you, including in your pocket, purse, backpack, bodily cavity, or anywhere else on the body. This means the law can hold you accountable for taking ownership of this drug. Being charged with actual possession will also include having the drug on you shortly before the officer’s arrival. For example, if you threw the drugs away on the ground right when an officer was approaching you, they may still be able to charge you with actual possession as long as they can prove that you had them beforehand.
  2. What Is Constructive Possession?
    A constructive possession charge means you had the drug in your hand or place where it was readily accessible. You might be charged with constructive possession if the drugs were found at your residence, in your vehicle, or in any other area that you had control over. For example, if the police had a warrant to search your property—whether that was a vehicle, apartment, or home that you owned, and they found drugs, you may be charged with constructive possession. Even if the police found the drugs when you were away, you would still be held accountable for this possession.
  3. What Is Joint Possession?
    Joint possession occurs when two or more people have equal access and control of the drug. For example, if you were present in a home where drugs were found in a communal living space, the law could hold you accountable for joint possession even if they weren’t yours.

    In the case of prescription drugs, foryou to legally have them in your possession, they must be prescribed to you by a doctor. If you have a prescription for the drug, it is legal to possess it.

    Using prescription drugs that were not prescribed to you can be considered a criminal offense in San Diego. Therefore, if you are caught using or possessing prescription medications without a valid prescription, you could be facing any of these possession charges. If you have been accused of any drug crime, you need an experienced defense attorney on your side. At Zentz & Zentz Attorneys at Law, we can help you with any case involving unlawful possession of prescription drugs. Our San Diego prescription drug defense lawyers will stand by you and defend your case aggressively.

Prescription Drug Trafficking (Selling, Buying, Etc.)

The distribution of prescription drugs without a valid prescription can be considered unlawful drug trafficking. If you are caught selling or buying any medication that was not prescribed to you but was meant for other patients instead,you can face criminal charges, including charges for the selling, administering, furnishing, importing, and transporting of controlled substances. If you are found selling or buying prescription drugs without a valid prescription, it can be considered drug trafficking.

A drug charge in San Diego is a significant offense that can have serious consequences. A conviction for possessing or using drugs without a prescription could result in jail time, fines, and other penalties. Drug trafficking charges are classified as unlawful distribution of controlled substances, and they carry stiffer penalties than simple possession of illegal drugs. It’s crucial to get legal help from an experienced defense attorney if you’re facing anycriminal charge related to the use or sale of illicit prescription substances.

If you happen to be accused of selling prescription drugs, you must understand the differences between misdemeanor and felony charges. If you were arrested for anyprescription trafficking, you are most likely facing felony charges.

What Is Misdemeanor Drug Trafficking?

Misdemeanor drug trafficking is the unlawful selling, giving away, or transporting for sale of any controlled substance. Misdemeanor drug trafficking charges typically involve low quantities of marijuana and do not apply to prescription drugs.

What Is Felony Drug Trafficking?

Felony drug trafficking charges are easily the most seriousdrug charges. In California, the sale of all Schedule I and II drugs (including prescription opioids) are considered felony charges. In addition, if you were caught selling any controlled substance, it could be considered a felony. This can be punishable by law with imprisonment and hearty fines.

While these charges are highly serious, there are ways you can fight these charges if you feel you were wrongfully accused of this offense or there was a legal discrepancy in the way these charges came about. Whatever the case is, at Zentz & Zentz Attorneys at Law, we can help you to best understand your charges and the possible outcomes that may follow. We can help you defend your case and fight for the best possible outcome.

Prescription Drug Fraud

Prescription drug fraud is the unauthorized use of a prescription to obtain drugs. Foryou to be considered guilty of this criminal offense, it must have been done with the intent to defraud. If you are using a prescription that was not meant for you but rather for someone else, you can face criminal charges.

Prescription drug fraud charges are considered a misdemeanor. While this is not as serious as other prescription crimes, it can still have negative consequences for you. If you have been caught committing this offense, you may face serious charges. It is also up to the prosecution to determine if this will be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony—it could go either way.

Prescription Drug Forgery

Another way you could be charged with prescription fraud is by forging a doctor’s signature on the original prescription. If you are caught forging a doctor’s signature to use or obtain prescription drugs, it can be considered a criminal offense.

Prescription drug forgery is a felony charge. To be found guilty of this offense, the prosecution must prove that you did indeed forge a doctor’s signature on the prescription. Therefore, if you are accused of this charge, it is essential to understand all possible outcomes and how a lawyer can help.

False Representation to Obtain Prescription Drugs

False representation to obtain prescription drugs is the act of lying or misrepresenting yourself to receive a prescription. This can include pretending to be a doctor, manufacturer, veterinarian, or another professional. In addition, if you give false information about your identity to receive a prescription, it is considered fraud, and you may be charged.

False representation can be considered a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on your case. It can carry severe consequences, including heavy fines and jail time, depending on the circumstances.

Symptoms of Illegal/Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription drug use without legal authorization is illegal for a reason; prescriptions are dangerous drugs that can have severe health effects. If you’ve developed a dependency, there are ways to get help. Seeking help in this situation can possibly improve your situation after an arrest. Discuss your situation with your attorney to learn the best course of action.

Several symptoms may indicate you or someone else is abusing prescription drugs. These include:

  • Drug cravings and mood swings
  • Lack of awareness
  • Memory loss or blackouts
  • Drug-seeking behavior

These are just some of the most common indicators that you or someone else is abusing prescription drugs. If these symptoms are present, it may be best to seek medical attention and speak with a doctor about your condition.

The seriousness of this crime and the severe symptoms of prescription drug overuse are why we fight to ensure you are adequately defended and your case is handled with the care and professionalism it deserves.

What Defenses Are There for Prescription Drug Charges?

If you are facing criminal charges for a prescription drug offense, it is essential to understand the different possible defenses in your case. Each charge has its own complexities—however one thing remains the same: You are innocent until proven guilty. Zentz & Zentz criminal defense lawyers will fight hard to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the best outcome possible.

Whether you face a misdemeanor or a felony charge, there are several possible defenses. However, because the conviction of a crime this serious can have severe consequences on you for the rest of your life, we take our defense very seriously and will work with you to find the best possible defense for fighting your charges.

It is crucial to hire a criminal lawyer who understands the complexities of the law and who can defend you properly.

Law Enforcement Tactics

Once you are charged with a crime, it does not mean you have been convicted and found guilty. For this reason, your constitutional rights are still very much in place, and you need to understand what they mean.

Often, law enforcement officers will work together to get a conviction. They do that by using manipulative tactics that are against the law in orderto get information or confessions from you. Once you are charged, it is essential to understand your rights as a defendant or suspect. Highly experienced criminal lawyers can help you identify these tactics and get you the help you need.

Why Legal Advice Is Crucial

Once you or someone else is charged with a crime, it may be tempting to try to handle things on your own. While it is possible to defend yourself against a prescription drug possession charge, it is rarely in your best interests. It is also not an easy task, especially for someone new to the legal system. Small details can have huge impacts on a case like this, and small details are what your San Diego prescription drug attorney is trained to notice. As one of the most critical times in your life,you need experienced, passionate legal help. Unfortunately, innocence isn’t always enough to protect you against such charges.

You need a criminal defense lawyer who will fight hard to ensure your rights are protected. For this reason, it is essential to seek assistance as soon as you are charged with a prescription drug crime.

Find Help for Prescription Drug Defense at Zentz & Zentz

If you or a loved one has been accused of prescription drug-related charges, you need to obtain legal representation from an experienced defense attorney. It can be beneficial for you to learn more about the charges and potential penalties as soon as possible.To learn more about our prescription drug defense services in San Diego, California, please schedule a confidential consultation with Zentz&Zentznow.

Contact Us Today

Request your FREE Consultation

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

OUR OFFICE 
Locations

San Diego 
Head Office

600 Broadway
Suite 700
San Diego CA 92101

TEL: (702) 800-3190
EMAIL: info@zentzlaw.com

Las Vegas
Office

601 S. 10th Street 
Suite 102
Las Vegas NV 89101

TEL: (702) 800-3190
EMAIL: info@zentzlaw.com
Digital Marketing By:
Click Track Marketing
© 2022 Zentz & Zentz Attorneys at Law. All Rights Reserved.