Shreveport Prescription Drug Violations Defense Attorney

Prescription drug violations are prosecuted just as aggressively as charges involving illegal substances in Louisiana. Many people are surprised to find themselves facing serious criminal charges for conduct involving legally manufactured medications — but possessing prescription drugs without a valid prescription, obtaining them through fraud, or distributing them to others are all criminal offenses under Louisiana law that can result in felony charges, prison time, and a permanent criminal record.

If you are facing prescription drug charges in Shreveport, Bossier City, or anywhere in Northwest Louisiana, do not assume the situation will resolve itself. Contact an experienced drug violations defense attorney right away.

Common Prescription Drug Violations In Louisiana

Prescription drug offenses cover a wide range of conduct. The most common prescription drug charges I defend in Shreveport and Bossier City include:

• Possession without a valid prescription — having a controlled prescription medication without a prescription in your name
• Prescription fraud — forging, altering, or obtaining prescriptions through deception
• Doctor shopping — visiting multiple physicians to obtain multiple prescriptions for the same medication
• Unlawful distribution — selling or giving prescription medications to others
• Possession with intent to distribute — having a quantity of prescription drugs that suggests intent to sell
• Obtaining drugs by fraud — misrepresenting symptoms or medical conditions to obtain prescriptions

The most commonly involved medications in these cases include opioids such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl, as well as benzodiazepines like Xanax and Valium, and stimulants such as Adderall. These substances are highly regulated, and charges involving them are taken extremely seriously by Louisiana prosecutors.

Penalties For Prescription Drug Violations In Louisiana

The penalties for prescription drug violations depend on the specific charge, the substance involved, and the quantity. In general:

• Simple possession without a prescription — result in misdemeanor or felony jail sentences, even for a first time offender; can result in up to six months in jail for a first offense; repeat offenses carry longer sentences
• Prescription fraud — typically charged as a felony; sentences can range from two to ten years
• Distribution of prescription drugs — treated similarly to distribution of illegal substances; potential for significant prison time and fines
• Federal charges — if the conduct involved interstate activity, online pharmacies, or large quantities, federal prosecution is possible with mandatory minimum sentences

Like all drug convictions, a prescription drug conviction creates a permanent criminal record with consequences that extend well beyond jail time — affecting your career, your professional licenses, and your personal life for years to come.

How I Defend Prescription Drug Charges

Prescription drug cases often hinge on intent and the specific facts surrounding how the drugs were obtained or possessed. I examine every aspect of your case to identify the strongest available defenses, which may include:

• Valid prescription defense — if you had or believed you had a valid prescription
• Lack of knowledge — if you were unaware the medication required a prescription or was in your possession
• Unlawful search and seizure — if law enforcement discovered the drugs through an improper search
• Challenging prescription fraud allegations — examining whether the conduct actually meets the legal definition of fraud
• Medical necessity — in limited circumstances, demonstrating a legitimate medical need

With more than 30 years of experience defending drug charges across Louisiana, I understand both the legal complexities of prescription drug cases and the human story behind each one. I will treat your case with the seriousness it deserves and fight for the best possible outcome.

Your Future Deserves a Powerful Defense

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Serving Shreveport, Bossier City, And Northwest Louisiana

I represent clients facing prescription drug violations throughout Caddo Parish, Bossier Parish, Lincoln Parish, Webster Parish, Jackson Parish, Vernon Parish, and Natchitoches Parish. If you or someone you know is facing prescription drug charges anywhere in the region, contact my Shreveport office right away.

Contact A.J. Hodges, IV About Your Prescription Drug Charge

Call 318-990-1089 to reach my office in Shreveport. You can also contact me online. The sooner you have an attorney working on your case, the better your options.