Advances in medicine have revolutionized the way Michiganders treat illnesses and diseases. Amongst the areas that have seen significant improvements is medication. Nowadays, a simple pill can ease or eliminate severe symptoms of a more serious condition or kill excruciating pain. However, perhaps because of these medications’ effectiveness, many find themselves turning to these drugs, even when they have not been validly prescribed. This, in turn, has shifted law enforcement focus towards those who try either to obtain these drugs, either without a valid prescription or fraudulently obtain a prescription.

In the state of Michigan, it is illegal to try to fraudulently secure a controlled substance or a prescription for a controlled substance. Those found guilty of this crime could face up to four years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. These penalties can be crushing, stripping individuals of their freedom, snatching them from their loved ones and ruining their financial health.

Additionally, those convicted of this crime can be ordered to complete a substance abuse assessment. As part of the assessment, the convicted individual may have to take classes, submit to drug and alcohol screens and enter rehabilitation. The cost for all of these services is to be covered by the convicted individual.

Though it may seem like a relatively minor crime, attempting to fraudulently obtain a prescription for a controlled substance is a serious offense. Yet, those who are facing drug charges can fight the charges with a strong criminal defense. By assessing the facts and analyzing the evidence, those accused of wrongdoing and their attorney may be able to find a way to get charges reduced or even dismissed. Therefore, those facing criminal charges should fully consider the legal options available to them.

Source: Legislature.MI.gov, “Public Health Code,” accessed on Sept. 18, 2015