814.402.8826

814.402.8826

purchase, george & murphey.

purchase, george & murphey.

Erie, PA Prescription Drug Crime Defense Lawyer

Seasoned Criminal Defense Lawyers Advocate for Clients Accused of Prescription Drug Crimes in Western Pennsylvania

Many people tend to associate drug crimes with illegal or illicit substances like cocaine and heroin, but the nationwide opioid epidemic has placed a spotlight on substances that many obtain and use legally every day—prescription drugs.  In some cases, the possession, use, sale or other actions involving prescription drugs are punishable on the same level—or with even greater severity—than crimes involving substances that are clearly illegal. Although prescription drugs are legal when used properly, because of the potential for abuse of these prescription drugs, the laws in Pennsylvania impose strict penalties whether you are charged with possession, illegally obtaining the drugs or intent to distribute the prescription drugs.

PGM Team of Attorneys

At Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C., we are committed to building strong and compelling defense strategies for clients accused of prescription drug crimes in Erie and throughout Western Pennsylvania.  We not only have an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system and laws governing prescription drug crimes, but we realize that many who are accused of prescription drug crimes may be suffering from addiction.  We treat every client with the compassion and respect that they deserve while fighting to minimize the consequences that allegations of prescription drug abuse can generate.

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This form is fully confidential. We will safeguard your privacy and reputation. We will contact you within 24 hours. If you need immediate assistance, please call our office: 814.402.8826

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"Professional, honest, hard-working and made the entire process a lot less stressful."

Gregory F., July 2021 / Former Client

★★★★★

"We really appreciate Tim taking the time to consult with us. He was very professional and had great advice. We really appreciate it."

Leonid K., May 2021 / Former Client

Types of Prescription Drug Crimes Punishable in Erie, PA

The penalties for prescription drug crimes depend upon the type of drug involved, as well as the action alleged and your past criminal history.  Some examples of prescription drug crimes and their penalties under Pennsylvania laws include:

  • Simple possession. For first offenders, simple possession is a misdemeanor crime and can result in up to one year in jail and $5,000 in fines.  For second offenders, the penalties increase to three years in jail and a maximum of $25,000 in fines.
  • Possession with intent to deliver.  This is a felony-level prescription drug crime that could result in up to 15 years in prison and $250,000 in fines.
  • Unlawful manufacturing of prescription drugs.  Unlawful manufacturing of prescription drugs is a more serious crime that can result in 15 years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines, depending upon the circumstances.

Obtaining a prescription through fraudulent means, such as stealing a doctor’s prescription pad, altering a prescription, using someone else’s prescription or forging a doctor’s signature, is also a prescription drug crime under Pennsylvania law.  It is also a prescription drug crime to share prescription drugs with another—certain sharing of prescription drugs may be classified as illegal distribution even without sale of the drugs involved.

Pennsylvania also makes it a criminal offense to sell prescription drugs that you obtained legally to someone else—perhaps a drug dealer or even a friend.  Doctors, pharmacists, and pharmacies can also be held criminally responsible for prescription drug crimes committed by those individuals and organizations.

Purchase, George & Murphey Provide Strong and Smart Advocacy for Clients Accused of Prescription Drug Crimes in Meadville, PA

At Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C., we do not take allegations of prescription drug crimes lightly—and neither should you. A conviction can result in jail time, extensive monetary fines and a criminal record that will haunt you for years to come. Our prescription drug crimes lawyers have the experience necessary to build the strongest possible defense strategy for clients accused of illegal actions involving prescription drugs, such as:

  • Adderall
  • Oxycontin
  • Oxycodone
  • Hydrocodone
  • Vicodin
  • Percocet
  • Xanax
  • And more

If you have been charged with a prescription drug crime involving these or other controlled substances, our talented prescription drug crimes defense lawyers will provide strong advocacy and will help you explore all possible alternatives to avoid conviction or minimize the charge if possible in your case.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation to Discuss Your Prescription Drug Crime Allegations with Our Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you or a loved one have been accused of a criminal offense involving prescription drugs, don’t make the mistake of taking the charges lightly.  Prescription drug crimes carry felony-level punishments that can have lasting consequences in both your personal and professional life and can result in substantial jail time.  Call our experienced prescription drug crime defense lawyers if you have been charged with a prescription drug crime in Erie or elsewhere in Western Pennsylvania. You can also fill out this secure online contact form or use our online chat feature to reach our lawyers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prescription Drug Crimes in Erie, PA

Eric Purchase

Eric Purchase

Craig Murphey

Craig Murphey

Timothy George

Tim George

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