What Happens If You Get Pulled Over With Someone Else’s Prescription?
Being in possession of someone else’s prescription might not initially seem like a big deal. But, with stricter laws and legal consequences on drug possession in the United States and New Jersey, getting pulled over with possession of a prescription that is not yours could land you in big trouble.
What is a Controlled Dangerous Substance?
A controlled dangerous substance (CDS) includes certain prescription drugs that are scheduled under federal and New Jersey Laws. Controlled substances might include:
- Opioid pain medications
- ADHD medications
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Synthetic steroids
These medications require the prescription of a medical provider. Only the individual who the prescription is prescribed can possess it.
Potential Prescription Charges in New Jersey
Illegal possession of prescription drugs could include prescription fraud, theft, forgery, or possession/distribution. The specific charges dictate the legal consequences that you can expect. Individuals who are found under the influence of a prescription drug that is not prescribed to them can also be charged with a disorderly persons offense.
Being charged with a prescription charge in New Jersey could lead to the following consequences:
- Legal fines (Up to $100,000)
- Required prison time (Up to 10 years)
- Required community service and drug counseling
- Loss of professional license
The legal consequences of prescription drug charges tend to be stricter than other crimes in the state of New Jersey. This is done in an attempt to reduce prescription misuse and overdose.
Potential Defenses to Prescription Drug Charges
People make mistakes and serving jail time is not always the solution. It is important to look at all of the available evidence, ensuring that the arrest and charges were brought legally, while also looking for any defense. A few potential prescription drug defenses might include mistaken identity, illegal search, failure to read Miranda rights, or lack of evidence.
Depending on the details of the prescription charges, expunging your record after you have fulfilled your consequences may also be an option. We understand how much drug charges can impact your life and we work hard to come up with a solution that works for everyone involved, working toward a negotiation.
Work With an Experienced Drug Defense Lawyer Today
Being charged with prescription drug misuse, whether it is for possession or distribution, can negatively impact your life. It can lead to jail time and expensive legal fines. You could even lose your professional license and be prohibited from taking out student loans. It is crucial that you discuss your case with a drug defense lawyer today.
The risk is too great to choose any lawyer. While New Jersey might be strict when it comes to illegal prescription possession, there are defenses and drug programs available that could lead to reduced sentencing. You might be eligible for the pretrial intervention (PTI) program, which allows you to waive jail time and criminal charges in lieu of drug evaluations and rehabilitation.
Every case is different, so it is important that we learn of the details of your case when determining the best legal defense to take.
Contact an Experienced Camden County Drug Defense Attorney About Your Prescription Drug Crime Charges in New Jersey
Have you been charged with a drug crime in New Jersey? A drug crime conviction can carry with it heavy fines, jail time, and driver’s license suspension! That is why it is imperative that you speak with a qualified drug defense lawyer about your case. The lawyers at Gelman Law, LLC represent clients charged with use, possession, production, distribution, and related drug offenses in Camden County, Cherry Hill, Burlington County, Gloucester County, and throughout New Jersey. Call (856) 474-1450 or fill out our confidential online form to schedule a consultation about your case. We have an office located at 1940 W Route 70, Suite #4, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
