Prescription Fraud Is a Serious Drug Crime in Florida
Prescription drug abuse has become a growing issue across Florida, and law enforcement is cracking down hard on those suspected of obtaining medications illegally. Unfortunately, this aggressive enforcement can result in good people—many of whom are struggling with legitimate health concerns—being charged with prescription fraud. If you or someone you love is facing charges, it’s crucial to understand the role an experienced St. Petersburg drug crimes lawyer as your criminal defense attorney. At The Law Office of William B. Bennett, we help protect your rights and fight for your future.
What Is Prescription Fraud in Florida?
Under Florida Statute 893.13, prescription fraud includes a range of activities, such as:
- Forging or altering prescriptions
- Doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions)
- Using someone else’s prescription
- Impersonating medical staff to obtain drugs
- Illegally possessing prescription pads
These offenses are often charged as felonies. As a result, they can carry severe penalties, including jail time, heavy fines, loss of professional licenses and a permanent criminal record.
Why You Need a Local Drug Crimes Lawyer
When you’re accused of prescription fraud in St. Petersburg, having a local criminal defense attorney who understands the Pinellas County court system can make or break a case.
Here’s how The Law Office of William B. Bennett can help:
1. Thorough Case Review and Legal Strategy
Every case is unique. So, we start by carefully reviewing the evidence against you—prescription records, pharmacy logs, doctor testimony and police procedures—to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We may explore potential defenses, including:
- Lack of intent to deceive
- Entrapment
- Illegal search and seizure
- Mistaken identity
2. Negotiating with Prosecutors
As a former prosecutor, Attorney William B. Bennett knows how the other side thinks. That experience is invaluable in negotiating plea deals, reduced charges or even dismissals in some cases—especially for first-time offenders or those dealing with addiction.
3. Connecting Clients with Drug Court and Diversion Programs
For eligible clients, we can help pursue alternatives to incarceration such as drug court or pre-trial diversion programs available in Pinellas County. These programs focus on rehabilitation over punishment and may allow your charges to be dropped upon successful completion.
4. Protecting Your Professional License and Reputation
If you’re a nurse, pharmacist or healthcare worker, a prescription fraud charge can jeopardize your entire career. We can help minimize the fallout by working with licensing boards and offering aggressive defense strategies to preserve your future.
Contact a St. Petersburg Drug Crimes Attorney Today
A conviction for prescription fraud can derail your life—but you don’t have to face the system alone. At The Law Office of William B. Bennett, we provide compassionate, skilled and strategic defense for individuals across St. Petersburg and the greater Tampa Bay area.
If you’ve been charged with prescription fraud in St. Petersburg or suspect you’re under investigation, time is critical. Let our office take the burden off your shoulders. Call The Law Office of William B. Bennett today at (727) 821-8000 or schedule a free consultation online here.
Tagged with: Criminal Defense, Drug Crime, Felony, Prescription, Prescription Fraud
Posted in: Drug Crime