Tag Archives: Prescription Fraud

Indiana Prescription Fraud: Laws, Penalties, and Defense Strategies

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Prescription fraud, or pharmacy fraud, is an increasingly serious problem across the United States, with Indiana being no exception. It refers to an act of illegally obtaining prescription medication through fraudulent means. This crime is viewed seriously by Indiana law, and those found guilty are subject to severe penalties.

This blog post aims to shed light on the laws surrounding prescription fraud in Indiana, the potential penalties that one might face if charged, and the defense strategies that can be employed in such cases. Stay tuned as we delve into the intricacies of pharmacy fraud charges, common defenses in such cases, and the implications of prescription fraud sentencing.

Call 317-636-7514 When You Need a Prescription Fraud Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-636-7514 When You Need a Prescription Fraud Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana

Understanding Prescription Fraud Charges

Prescription drug fraud charges in Indiana can stem from a range of activities, including but not limited to:

Doctor Shopping – visiting multiple doctors to obtain the same prescription medication.

Pharmacy Hopping – filling prescriptions at different pharmacies without informing the pharmacists.

Altering or Forging Prescriptions – changing information on a valid prescription or creating a fake one.

Prescription Theft – stealing prescription pads or forms to obtain medication.

Impersonating a Healthcare Professional – posing as a doctor or nurse to obtain prescriptions.

In Indiana, these actions are considered felonies and can result in severe legal consequences. It is also important to note that even the possession of a controlled substance without a valid prescription is unlawful and can lead to criminal charges.

Penalties for Prescription Drug Fraud in Indiana

The potential penalties for pharmacy fraud in Indiana depend on several factors, including the specific charges and the amount and type of medication involved. However, some common penalties that one may face if convicted of prescription fraud include:

Jail time – Depending on the severity of the offense, a conviction could result in a prison sentence ranging from months to years.

Fines – Prescription fraud convictions can also result in hefty fines, which can add up to thousands of dollars.

Probation – In some cases, the court may impose probation as an alternative to jail time. This involves being monitored and adhering to specific conditions set by the court.

License Suspension – A conviction for prescription fraud could also lead to the suspension or revocation of a professional license, such as a medical license.

Reputation Damage – Prescription fraud is a serious offense that can have lasting effects on one’s personal and professional reputation.

Defense Strategies for Prescription Fraud Cases

If you are facing prescription fraud charges in Indiana, it is essential to seek legal representation immediately. A skilled criminal defense attorney can help build a strong case and potentially reduce or dismiss the charges against you. Some common defense strategies in pharmacy fraud cases include:

Lack of Intent – In some cases, it may be possible to argue that the defendant did not have the intention to commit prescription fraud.

Invalid Search Warrant – If evidence was obtained through an invalid search warrant, it could potentially be dismissed in court.

Mistaken Identity – It is possible for someone to be falsely accused of prescription fraud due to mistaken identity.

Lack of Evidence – The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed prescription fraud. If there is insufficient evidence, the charges may be dismissed.

Prescription Fraud Sentencing in Indiana

Prescription fraud sentencing in Indiana takes into consideration various factors such as the severity of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances. In general, first-time offenders may receive lighter sentences compared to repeat offenders or those involved in larger-scale operations. Additionally, some alternatives to incarceration such as drug treatment programs may be available for eligible individuals.

In Summary

Prescription fraud is a serious crime that can lead to severe legal consequences. If you are facing pharmacy fraud charges in Indiana, it is crucial to seek legal representation and understand the laws, potential penalties, and defense strategies surrounding this offense. Remember, ignorance of the law is not a valid defense.

Looking for aggressive criminal defense that can get you the best possible outcome in court for your fraud charges? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a seasoned criminal defense charge defense lawyer who can skillfully fight your prescription fraud charges in Indianapolis, Indiana. Act now while there is still ample time to build your defense and secure your freedoms.

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The Penalties for Prescription Drug Criminal Charges in Indiana
What to Do if You are Facing Prescription Drug Charges in Indianapolis
Were You Arrested for Prescription Drug Possession in Indiana?

Forgery Charges in Indiana: What You Need to Know

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Navigating the legal landscape surrounding forgery charges in Indiana can be a daunting task without proper guidance. This crime, which involves the unauthorized making or alteration of a written document with the intent to defraud, carries severe penalties and long-lasting repercussions. Whether you’re grappling with a forgery charge for the first time, or you’re a concerned family member seeking information, understanding the key aspects of these charges, including their potential defenses and penalties, is crucial.

Here, we aim to offer a comprehensive guide on the matter, highlighting the important role of a skilled forgery lawyer in defending against such charges, with a special focus on cases related to forging checks.

Call 317-636-7514 When You Need a Forgery Charge Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-636-7514 When You Need a Forgery Charge Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana

Understanding Forgery Charges in Indiana

According to the Indiana Code, forgery is a Level 6 felony offense punishable by up to two and a half years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. However, the severity of the charge can vary depending on factors such as the type of document forged, the intent behind it, and whether or not it was used to commit a further crime. For instance, if the forged document is a deed or will, the charge may be elevated to a Level 5 felony, with penalties of up to six years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Similarly, using a forged document to obtain property or services worth $750 or more can result in a Level 6 felony charge with a maximum prison sentence of three years and a $10,000 fine.

Forging Checks

Forgery charges often involve forging checks, a common practice that can have serious legal implications. In Indiana, writing a check with insufficient funds or altering the amount on a check with fraudulent intent is considered forgery and is punishable by law. This offense also carries civil penalties, including restitution to the victim and additional fees. Moreover, repeated instances of check forgery can result in more severe charges and harsher penalties.

Forging a Prescription

Prescription fraud has become a rising issue in Indiana. Forging a prescription involves creating a fake prescription or altering an existing one for non-medical use. The consequences of this crime can be severe, with those caught facing potential prison sentences and fines. The pharmacists and doctors who are prescribing the medications are also held liable for the crime.

Potential Defenses Against Forgery Charges

To prove that an individual is guilty of forgery, the prosecution must establish beyond reasonable doubt that they had the intent to defraud and knowingly made or altered a written document without permission. This requires concrete evidence, which can sometimes be challenging to obtain. A skilled forgery lawyer can help build a strong defense strategy by challenging the prosecution’s evidence, questioning the credibility of witnesses, and highlighting any weaknesses in the case. In some cases, it may also be possible to negotiate a plea deal or have the charges reduced to a lesser offense with less severe penalties.

The Role of a Forgery Lawyer

Forgery charges are complex and require a specialized legal defense. An experienced criminal defense forgery lawyer can navigate the intricacies of the law, investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense, and mount a robust defense on their client’s behalf. They will also work with their client to gather evidence and build a strong case, providing guidance and support every step of the way. Having a knowledgeable and skilled forgery lawyer by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

In Summary

Forgery charges in Indiana are not to be taken lightly. They can have devastating consequences on an individual’s personal and professional life. If you or a loved one is facing such charges, it’s crucial to seek the guidance of a skilled forgery lawyer who can help navigate the legal system and defend your rights. Remember, with the right legal representation and a strong defense strategy, it is possible to overcome forgery charges and move forward toward a brighter future. 

Keep in mind that every situation is unique, so it’s essential to consult with a knowledgeable forgery lawyer who can offer personalized legal advice tailored to your case. Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a seasoned felony criminal defense lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm will get you the best possible outcome to your criminal case!

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The Penalties for Prescription Drug Criminal Charges in Indiana

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If you’ve been charged with a prescription drug crime in Indiana, it’s important to understand the possible penalties that come with a conviction. Depending on the degree of your offense and other factors, you could be facing serious consequences such as jail time and hefty fines. In order to protect yourself from the worst-case scenario, it is essential to become familiar with Indiana’s laws surrounding narcotics charges and contact an experienced Indianapolis drug crime lawyer who can help build your defense.

In this blog post, we will break down the various types of prescription drug crimes in Indiana and their associated punishments so that you can make informed decisions about how best proceed if you are charged with a narcotic-related offense. We will also provide tips for choosing an experienced drug charge attorney who can fight on your behalf in court and secure favorable outcomes for your case.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Prescription Drug Criminal Lawyer in Indianapolis
Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Prescription Drug Criminal Lawyer in Indianapolis

Types of Prescription Drugs and Criminal Charges

A variety of man-made drugs are commonly trafficked and abused on the black market, primarily tranquilizers, benzodiazepines, opioid painkillers, and stimulants. In more recent years, illegally made fentanyl has become increasingly popular among drug dealers due to its high potency and low manufacturing costs. The dangers posed by opioids, benzos, prescription stimulants, depressants, and fentanyl cannot be underestimated. Many users who purchase these substances from drug dealers can unknowingly become addicted or experience serious side-effects. This is why regulatory measures continue to be taken to curtail illegal sales of controlled pharmaceuticals through dealers.

The most common types of prescription drug crimes in Indiana are possession, manufacturing, distribution, and trafficking. Depending on the number and type of drugs involved, your charge could range from a misdemeanor to a felony offense. The punishment for each crime varies as follows:

Possession: Possession of narcotics without proper authorization is illegal and can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the amount and type of drug. Punishment typically includes jail time ranging from one year or more, along with fines up to $10,000.

Manufacturing: Manufacturing controlled substances in Indiana carries punishments of up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $100,000 if convicted. 

Distribution: Distributing narcotics without a prescription carries the same penalties as manufacturing, but with increased fines up to $150,000.

Trafficking: Trafficking narcotics across state lines is considered a federal offense and carries the harshest punishments of all including up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $1 million.

Are You Facing a Prescription Drug Charge?

No matter what type of drug crime you’ve been charged with in Indiana, it’s important that you seek legal help from an experienced drug crime lawyer in Indianapolis who can provide personalized guidance for your situation. A criminal attorney can review the facts of your case and determine if there are any potential defenses that can help reduce or dismiss your charges. They will also be able to advise you on the best course of action to take in order to secure the most favorable outcome for you.

Were you just arrested for a drug crime related to prescription pills or medications? If you’ve been charged with a prescription drug crime in Indiana, contact David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 today for knowledgeable and experienced legal representation. Our Indianapolis drug crime attorneys will provide you with personalized advice and develop an effective defense strategy that protects your rights and preserve your freedoms. Act now before it’s too late!

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Can I Get Arrested For My Friend’s Drugs?
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What to Do if You are Facing Prescription Drug Charges in Indianapolis

Choose David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, to Fight Fraud Charges in Indiana

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You CAN avoid the maximum penalties for fraud charges with the right criminal defense representation.

Indianapolis Fraud Lawyer 317-636-7514

Indianapolis Fraud Lawyer 317-636-7514

David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, provides aggressive criminal defense in Indiana for all misdemeanor and felony criminal charges and crimes, including all levels of fraud. Fraud crimes in Indiana can come with some severe penalties, such as jail time, large fines, probation, home detention, GPS electronic monitoring, drivers’ license suspension, community service, drug screening, restitution, and more.

Don’t Let a Fraud Charge Hold You Back

Fraud charges range between Misdemeanors and Felonies, depending on the nature of the crime and any enhancements that may apply. Enhancements can include priors, firearm possession, evading the law, and more. Regardless of the type of fraud crime you are charged with, David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law can help you avoid the maximum penalties you face. Our law firm has represented several clients who have faced a variety of fraud charges.

Our fraud practice areas include, but are not limited to:

❏ Accounting Fraud
❏ Investment Fraud
❏ Bank Fraud
❏ Mail Fraud
❏ Bankruptcy Fraud
❏ Mortgage Fraud
❏ Check Fraud
❏ Organized Fraud
❏ Credit Card Fraud
❏ Securities Fraud
❏ Government Fraud
❏ Prescription Fraud
❏ Healthcare Fraud
❏ Tax Fraud
❏ Identity Fraud
❏ Wire Fraud
❏ Insurance Fraud
❏ Welfare Fraud
❏ Internet Fraud
❏ Workers Comp Fraud

 

You Can Get Started Before Charges are Filed Against You!

If you were recently arrested on fraud charges in Indiana, it is in your best interest to contact David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, as soon as possible. He will get started on your fraud defense before formal charges are filed against you. He will begin building you a strong and impactful defense that challenges every allegation against you. And he will work around the clock to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms.

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

He is a sincere and present advocate for his clients. By maintaining open communication and refraining from using confusing legal jargon, his clients always stay fully-informed of their case proceedings and status. This makes his clients feel safe, secure, and confident that their case is in the hands of a competent and committed lawyer. Let David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, be your legal advocate. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation, today.