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The Legal Ramifications for Taking Unprescribed Drugs
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), misuse of prescription drugs, CNS (central nervous system) depressants, and stimulants are a significant problem in the U.S. The latest NIH data from 2017 reports that an estimated 18 million people ages 12 and older have misused at least once in the past year.
With prescription drug abuse on the rise in the U.S., state and federal lawmakers continue to crack down on illegal use, possession, and trafficking of prescription drugs.
Read on to learn more about the consequences of taking prescription drugs without a prescription.
Commonly Misused Prescription Drugs
Prescription drugs can be easily attainable, and some of the most common prescription drugs someone may illegally use are:
- Oxycontin
- Vicodin
- Percocet
- Demerol
- Ritalin
- Adderall
- Valium
- Xanax
If you’ve been charged with illegally using narcotic pain medicines, stimulants, or depressants, it’s critical to consult an attorney to examine the evidence surrounding your case to help you protect your rights.
Consequences of a Prescription Drug Use Conviction
The use of prescription drugs without a valid prescription is considered a misdemeanor offense.
If you are caught with prescription drugs, the consequences can be hefty. Depending on the type of prescription drug, you can face fines, jail time, or both.
In Michigan, highly addictive and dangerous drugs are classified as Schedule I or Schedule II. The penalties for possession of a prescription drug or controlled substance conviction are the following:
- Possession of more than 50 grams - up to four years in prison, fines up to $25,000, or both.
- Possession of 50 grams to 449 grams - up to 20 years in prison, fines of up to $25,000, or both.
- Possession of 450 grams to 999 grams - up to 30 years in prison, fines of up to $500,000, or both.
- Possession of $1,000 grams or more - up to life in prison, fines of up to $1,000,000, or both.
Charged with a Drug Crime? We Can Help.
Fighting a prescription drug charge means you’ll need a legal defense team experienced with Michigan drug laws. Taking prescription drugs illegally is a serious matter. When you are unsure of your future, we are here to help. At Grewal Law PLLC, our team of attorneys will protect your rights and fight to get you the best possible outcome involving your prescription drug charge.
Call Grewal Law PLLC at (888) 211-5798 to schedule a consultation and learn your rights.
