What Criminal Charges Could A Doctor Face For Writing A False Prescription In Florida?
Prescription medications are powerful, highly regulated controlled substances. They must be written by a licensed physician. What happens if a doctor misuses their right to prescribe medication? In Florida, they could be charged with a serious criminal offense, potentially even a felony. In this article, our Orlando white collar criminal defense lawyer explains the key things doctors should know about criminal charges for the alleged writing of false prescriptions in Florida.
Prescription Fraud is a Serious Crime in Florida
In recent years, state and federal authorities have started cracking down on prescription fraud charges. Prescription fraud—which may be charged as a type of healthcare fraud, a financial crime, or even a drug related offense—could lead to a medical professional facing misdemeanor and/or felony criminal charges in Florida. As a prescription fraud charge could also lead to a doctor facing problems with their medical license, it is imperative that they consult with a lawyer right away.
An Overview of Charges Doctors Can Face for Writing a False Prescription in Florida
Florida has some of the most strict, comprehensive drug laws in the entire country—and that includes for alleged prescription fraud cases. A doctor who is alleged to have written a false prescription could face a wide array of different criminal charges depending on the underlying nature of the allegations. Some notable criminal charges that could be filed against a physician who finds themselves in this situation include:
- Prescription Fraud (Florida Statute 893.13): In Florida, the most common criminal charge for writing a false prescription. It involves the unlawful acquisition or distribution of prescription drugs. It could be charged as a first degree misdemeanor or third degree felony based on the specific circumstances.
- Practicing Medicine Without a License (Florida Statute 458.327): If a suspended or unlicensed doctor writes a prescription, this charge can apply. It is a third-degree felony, punishable by fines and imprisonment.
- Healthcare Fraud (18 U.S. Code § 1347): Should a false prescription lead to some form of false billing or a fraudulent insurance claim, a doctor in Florida could find themselves facing very serious federal white collar criminal charges.
Note: A doctor in Florida who has been arrested and/or charged with any type of prescription fraud offense is likely to face issues with their professional license. The Florida Board of Medicine may move to suspend or revoke their license. Developing a criminal defense strategy requires consideration of license-related matters.
Contact Our Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney for Doctors Today
At The Baez Law Firm, our Orlando white collar criminal defense lawyer has the skills and experience to protect the rights of doctors and other medical professionals. If you are a doctor who was arrested for writing a false prescription, we are more than ready to help. Contact us now for a completely confidential case review. With an office in Orlando, we provide criminal defense representation to doctors throughout Central Florida.
