Buffalo Grove Prescription Drug Charges Defense Attorney

Experienced Prescription Drug Crime Defense Lawyer in Lake County, Illinois

Most people are aware that possession of a controlled substance such as cocaine or marijuana is illegal and can lead to criminal charges in Illinois. However, unlawfully possessing a prescription drug in Illinois could also lead to a criminal drug charge. In fact, prescription drug charges are often treated as seriously as "street drug" possession charges.

If you or a loved one is facing a prescription drug charge, The Law Offices of Matthew R. Gebhardt, P.C. can assist you immediately. Our Buffalo Grove prescription drug defense lawyer has helped countless clients successfully fight their drug charges.

Possible Charges in Prescription Drug Crime Cases

Some common prescription medications involved in charges Attorney Gebhardt defends against include, but are not limited to:

• Xanax
• Oxycodone
• Adderall
• Morphine
• Ritalin
• Valium
• Ketamine
• Hydrocodone

These are just a few of the many prescription drugs that, if unlawfully possessed, could result in criminal charges.

Prescription drugs are categorized as Schedule II, III, or IV controlled substances. Basically, this means that these drugs have an accepted medical benefit if properly prescribed and used. Conversely, Schedule I drugs like crack cocaine, methamphetamines, LSD, etc. have a "high potential for abuse" and "no currently accepted medical use" under Illinois law. While there are differences between Schedule I drugs and prescription medications, unlawful possession of any drug is almost always a felony charge. If convicted of a prescription drug possession charge, a defendant could face years in prison.

Prescription Forgery Charges in Illinois

Related to prescription drug possession charges is the criminal charge of unlawful possession of a prescription form. This charge may be brought when someone knowingly "alters a properly issued prescription form; possesses without authorization a blank prescription form or counterfeit prescription form; or possesses a prescription form not issued by a licensed prescriber."

Often, unlawful possession of a prescription form is brought against someone accused of forging a prescription in order to gain access to a certain type of drug. Like all Illinois drug crimes, the charge of unlawful possession of a prescription form is taken seriously by prosecutors. Even a first-time offense is a Class 4 felony, punishable by one to three years in prison.

Legal Strategies for Prescription Drug Charges in Illinois

Prescription drug charges often involve unique circumstances compared to other drug cases, since the substance itself may be legal to possess under the right conditions. One common defense involves showing that the person had a valid prescription for the medication at the time of the arrest, which can lead to a dismissal of the charge entirely.

Other strategies focus on how the medication was found, stored, or labeled. If a person was carrying pills in a container other than the original prescription bottle, our attorney can argue that this alone does not prove unlawful possession. Errors in how officers identified the medication, along with problems in the chain of custody, can also weaken the state's case. Our attorney can review the arrest and medical records to determine which defenses may apply.

Contact a Buffalo Grove, IL Prescription Drug Crime Defense Lawyer

When you are facing prescription drug possession charges, you are facing serious criminal penalties. Not only could a conviction result in a significant prison sentence, but it will almost certainly negatively impact your future employment, educational, or housing opportunities. When so much is at stake, turn to an experienced prescription drug defense lawyer for legal help.

Attorney Gebhardt worked as a prosecutor for five years, and has practiced criminal law for over 20 years. With his extensive and unique legal experience, Matthew R. Gebhardt has a lot to offer anyone charged with an Illinois drug crime. Our firm will openly communicate with you about your legal options and answer all of your questions. Contact our Buffalo Grove prescription drug possession defense attorney or call 847-239-4703 today for a free consultation.