What happens if I get caught selling prescriptions drugs illegally?

Prescription drugs require a prescription for a reason; they can be dangerous if they get into the wrong hands. Unfortunately, there is a market for certain prescription drugs. Prescription drugs which are sold illegally include drugs like Ritalin or other ADHD medication, Morphine and codeine, among others. These drugs tend to be mind altering drugs that can be dangerous or even deadly if they are used by someone without proper medical care.

The charges for selling prescription drugs are generally very serious, often as serious as the penalties for distributing any other narcotic like cocaine or heroin. While each state imposes its own laws and requirements, it is common for a felony charge to be imposed. Felony charges mean a permanent criminal record, jail time that sometimes exceeds one year, and fines. In addition, if you are a doctor or nurse or other health care provider who is caught selling prescription drugs or distributing them improperly, then you will also lose your professional license.

In rare instances, the state where you live may impose misdemeanor or lesser charges for the improper sale of prescription drugs. These charges may be appropriate for a person who sold a small amount of drugs as a first offense, or for a minor who was selling prescription drugs. 

If you are accused of the illegal sale of prescription drugs, it is important you get help from a criminal defense lawyer. Your lawyer can assist you in understanding any potential penalties you may face and can also help you to either defend yourself or arrange a plea bargain to lessen the severity of the penalties you face.