Prescription Fraud Attorney in Savannah

Your Savannah Resource for Prescription Fraud Defense

When you need a prescription fraud lawyer in Savannah, you want experienced professionals who know the local courts, judges, and prosecutors. At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we represent individuals in prescription fraud matters throughout Savannah and Chatham County. Our team draws on years of experience in Georgia criminal defense, providing support and guidance when your future, record, and reputation are at stake.

We have handled a range of prescription-related charges in the region. Our knowledge of Savannah-specific investigative practices helps us identify key details in each case, so we can consider local procedures and law enforcement priorities that affect outcomes. When you work with our defense team, you benefit from experience inside Chatham County's courtrooms and our ongoing relationships with court personnel who see prescription fraud cases regularly.

Secure your freedom and license with an aggressive Savannah prescription fraud defense lawyer. We offer free consultations and immediate 24/7 legal help, backed by the insight of a former prosecutor. Contact our firm at (912) 417-5008 or online.

Understanding Prescription Fraud Laws in Georgia

In Georgia, prescription fraud is primarily defined as obtaining or attempting to obtain a controlled substance (such as Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, or Adderall) by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, or subterfuge. The State does not need to prove you successfully received the medication; the attempt to acquire it fraudulently is enough to constitute the felony offense.

The law is broad and targets multiple methods of deception, making it complex to defend:

• Forgery or Alteration: Changing the quantity, dosage, or date on a valid prescription slip, or using a forged/stolen prescription pad.
• Doctor Shopping: Knowingly withholding information from a practitioner that you have already received a prescription for a similar therapeutic use from another practitioner within a concurrent time period. This is explicitly a felony under O.C.G.A. § 16-13-43(a)(6).
• False Identity: Using a false name or address to acquire a prescription or medication.
• Impersonation: Calling in a prescription while impersonating a medical professional or staff member.

It is crucial to recognize the distinction between a charge involving a Controlled Substance (a felony under O.C.G.A. § 16-13-43) and a Dangerous Drug (a misdemeanor under O.C.G.A. § 16-13-78). A savvy Savannah prescription fraud defense lawyer will immediately fight to reduce the charge from a felony to a misdemeanor wherever possible.

Potential Penalties of Prescription Fraud Convictions in Savannah

A conviction for felony prescription fraud in Georgia carries devastating direct and indirect penalties that demand the urgent attention of a skilled prescription fraud attorney in Savannah.

Direct Penalties

• Imprisonment: Up to eight years in state prison.
• Fines: Up to $50,000.
• Probation: A lengthy period of supervised felony probation, often requiring mandatory drug testing, counseling, and strict reporting requirements.
• Felony Drug Record: The conviction results in a permanent felony drug offense on your criminal history.

Collateral and Professional Consequences

For medical and licensed professionals, prescription fraud is often a dual nightmare—a criminal charge coupled with a direct threat to your livelihood:

• Professional Licensing: Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare providers will almost certainly face license suspension or revocation from their respective state boards. Our firm can provide guidance on parallel defense strategies for both the criminal case and the licensing board investigation.
• Employment: A felony drug record often results in automatic termination and disqualifies you from any job requiring trust, security clearance, or professional licensing.
• Immigration Status: For non-citizens, a felony drug offense conviction often triggers deportation proceedings.
• Loss of Rights: You permanently lose your right to possess a firearm.

Do not allow a drug charge to end your career and freedom. Your Savannah prescription fraud defense lawyer must be retained immediately to fight these consequences.

Our Aggressive Defense Strategy: Former Prosecutor Fighting for You

Schneider Lerch, LLC, approaches prescription fraud cases not just as defense lawyers, but as seasoned trial strategists who have spent years prosecuting similar crimes. We use this unique insight to dismantle the State's case before it ever reaches a jury.

Defense strategies leveraging our prosecutor experience:

• Challenging Intent (Mistake vs. Fraud): We argue that the error was purely clerical or a mistake of fact—for instance, if a prescription was filled incorrectly, or if a doctor failed to update a PMP entry. We fight to prove that no criminal intent to deceive existed.
• Unlawful Search and Seizure: We analyze the process used by investigators to obtain evidence (phone records, PMP data, pharmacy video). If there were Fourth Amendment violations, we file motions to suppress the evidence. Successfully suppressing key video or documents can lead directly to the prosecutor dropping the prescription fraud charge.
• Challenging PMP Data: Georgia's Prescription Monitoring Program is a powerful tool for the State, but its data is not infallible. Our firm challenges the accuracy and completeness of the PMP data used to prove doctor shopping.
• Seeking Pre-Trial Diversion/Conditional Discharge: For certain first offenders, we aggressively pursue alternatives like Conditional Discharge (O.C.G.A. § 16-13-2) or specialized drug court programs. These options, if granted, allow for the dismissal of charges upon successful completion of probation and treatment, avoiding a felony conviction entirely.

We provide unparalleled strategic defense against all forms of prescription fraud.

Why Select Our Team as Your Prescription Fraud Lawyer in Savannah

People turn to us for more than representation—they want someone who listens and responds clearly. Our attorneys handle criminal law matters exclusively, including charges involving controlled substances and prescription medications. 

We know the approaches local agencies use when building cases, and our familiarity with Savannah’s courts helps ensure you’re prepared at each step. Our dedication shows through the care we put into listening to each client and the practical advice we offer throughout the process. We treat you as an individual, not a case number, providing realistic insights into your options and potential paths forward.

We value transparency and real communication. Many clients express gratitude for our straightforward style and our willingness to explain the legal process in clear, plain language. By focusing our practice solely on criminal defense, we stay up to date with new laws and legal developments that can impact your case in Savannah or the surrounding Georgia communities.

Our Approach to Prescription Fraud Defense in Savannah

• Thorough case review: We analyze every fact to identify opportunities and address potential setbacks early in the legal process.
• Personalized counsel: We lay out your options in everyday language, so you make confident decisions about next steps.
• Communication with you: We answer your questions directly and do our best to keep you informed throughout your case.
• Local court familiarity: Our years in Savannah criminal courts help us anticipate requirements, deadlines, and the most productive defense approaches.
• Support for related challenges: If your charges connect to substance dependency, we can discuss local support resources and how seeking help may play a role in your legal strategy.

Take the Next Step Toward Protecting Your Future

If you or a loved one faces a prescription fraud charge in Savannah, the right legal guidance can help you move forward with clarity and assurance. When you reach out, you gain a partner who puts your interests first, answers your questions, and provides a solid plan for your defense. Take control of your situation—let’s talk today.

Contact Schneider Lerch, LLC at (912) 417-5008 for your free, confidential consultation with a prescription fraud attorney in Savannah.

FAQs

What counts as prescription fraud in Savannah?

Prescription fraud may involve obtaining medications through false information, forging prescriptions, or using someone else’s identity to secure drugs. Georgia law covers a wide range of actions under this term.

Will a prescription fraud charge show up on my background check?

If you are convicted, prescription fraud will likely appear on a background check, which can affect employment and licensing.

Can prescription fraud charges result in jail time?

Yes, jail time is possible, especially if the case involves large amounts of medication or repeat offenses. Sentencing depends on the details of your case and local guidelines.

How long does the legal process take in Savannah for prescription fraud cases?

The timeline can vary based on court schedules, the complexity of the charges, and whether the case is resolved through negotiation or trial.

If addiction played a role, will that affect my case?

Addiction can be a factor in both defense strategies and court outcomes. Some courts may consider treatment options or diversion programs, depending on the circumstances.

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