Tampa Prescriptions Drug Fraud Lawyer

If you have been accused of prescription drug fraud, we urge you to contact our team at Stechschulte Nell for assistance. You don’t have to navigate a complex criminal case alone. With representation from our Tampa prescriptions drug fraud lawyer, you have a powerful ally who knows the law and is ready to fight for you. We understand the severity of fraud criminal charges. It is not worth risking your freedom and opportunities by delaying hiring a legal team. Attorney Ben Stechschulte is a former prosecutor, so he has real world insight into how the prosecution works and how to defend you. You are a human being with a family and dreams for your life. Let us help you keep a bad situation from putting your future off its path. If you or a loved one is currently facing this reality, contact us now.

Prescription Drug Fraud And Misuse

In the state of Florida, there has been an effort to eradicate prescription drug misuse and fraud, which has become more of a problem than unlawful drugs. If you are charged with prescription fraud, then you may face significant consequences. As our Tampa prescriptions drug fraud lawyer explains, there are two aspects to the drug fraud problem. The first is when people misrepresent their condition to doctors, or many, in order to get prescriptions for drugs they do not need (or to receive more than what is needed). Secondly, doctors, pharmacists, or pain clinic workers may divert drugs for their personal use or utilize fraudulent tactics to dispense drugs for monetary gain. If you were recently arrested for a drug offense, contact our prescription drug attorney immediately for counsel.

What Happens After Your Arrest

It is important that you use your right to remain silent and do not share more information than what is required of you for your arrest. The officer may need your name and other identification details to book you, but otherwise you should not answer any questions or attempt to talk your way out of the charges. If you have been accused of drug fraud, you may be facing felony charges. Our prescriptions drug fraud attorney knows that if there is a conviction, you may have to serve prison time and pay expensive fines, and have the right to own a firearm, vote, hold public office, or sit on a jury taken away. Anyone who has been arrested for a drug related crime is wise to consult with our prescriptions drug fraud attorney for protection.

Stechschulte Nell

Our attorneys Ben Stechschulte, Amy Nell, and Jenna Finkelstein at Stechschulte Nell know that sometimes people without purposeful criminal intent may find themselves in a situation with the law. Being accused of prescription drug fraud is a serious offense and legal counsel should be sought immediately. We recommend using your right to remain silent until we have spoken with you further. Once we have learned more about what has happened, the factors of your arrest, and evidence presented against you, we can build a defense to protect you. If this is a matter you are currently dealing with, we urge you to contact our Tampa prescriptions drug fraud lawyer now for representation. We are ready to get to work for you.

Types Of Prescription Drug Fraud Cases We Handle

Prescription drug charges can lead to serious legal trouble, especially when fraud is involved. These cases often come with allegations that suggest deliberate misuse of the healthcare system or controlled substances. At Stechschulte Nell, we help clients facing a range of accusations tied to prescription-related offenses, offering straightforward legal strategies that focus on facts, not assumptions. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, pharmacist, or individual accused of prescription fraud, it’s important to know the types of cases we handle and what they involve.

Forged Or Altered Prescriptions

One of the most common prescription-related offenses involves using false or altered prescriptions to obtain medication. This could mean modifying the number of refills, changing the drug name, or creating a prescription from scratch. These cases often include charges like fraud, forgery, or identity theft. In many situations, authorities rely on pharmacy records, handwriting analysis, or surveillance footage. We focus on reviewing the steps taken by law enforcement and whether the evidence clearly connects our client to the activity.

Doctor Shopping Allegations

Doctor shopping refers to visiting multiple doctors to obtain the same or similar prescriptions without disclosing prior visits or existing medications. This is treated as a serious offense, especially when it involves controlled substances like opioids, stimulants, or anti-anxiety medications. We examine the medical records, prescription history, and whether there was any intention to deceive. Sometimes, poor communication between providers or unclear medical instructions contribute to the situation, which is something we address directly in our defense approach.

Fraud Involving Medical Professionals

Healthcare workers and medical professionals may face charges tied to improper prescription practices. This includes writing prescriptions for patients who don’t need the medication, accepting payment for prescriptions, or filling prescriptions under another name. These cases often involve investigations by state boards and federal agencies. We help clients address these accusations while also considering the administrative consequences, such as license suspension or mandatory reporting obligations.

Pharmacy And Dispensing Violations

Pharmacists and pharmacy employees may be accused of filling fraudulent prescriptions, failing to follow protocols, or dispensing medication without proper verification. These allegations can involve both state and federal laws. We look at the procedures used, who had access to the prescriptions, and whether mistakes or system issues played a role. In some cases, it’s a matter of unclear communication or oversight—not intentional misconduct.

Illegal Possession Through Fraudulent Means

Some individuals face charges for obtaining prescription drugs through fraud, deception, or false representation. This may include using someone else’s insurance, impersonating a medical worker, or misrepresenting symptoms to a provider. The consequences can include both drug-related and fraud-related charges. We work to clarify our client’s intent, background, and any misunderstandings that may have led to the arrest or investigation.

Prescription drug fraud cases can quickly lead to charges that affect every part of a person’s life, from employment to professional standing to personal reputation. Each case is unique, and the details matter. At Stechschulte Nell, we focus on building a clear and honest defense based on facts—not assumptions. If you’re looking for our Tampa, FL white collar crime lawyer with experience in prescription fraud defense, contact our team today to find out how we can help.

Steps In A Prescription Drug Fraud Case

You may face serious prison time, hefty fines, and loss of your medical or professional license if convicted under Florida’s prescription fraud laws—an overwhelming hurdle we understand all too well. At Stechschulte Nell, we know how daunting this feels, and we stand by you with real-world insight and compassionate counsel. As a former prosecutor and a Board-Certified criminal defense attorney, our lead attorney brings nearly 15 years of courtroom experience to every Tampa, FL prescription drug fraud lawyer case. Florida law—Chapter 893 of the Florida Statutes—carries severe penalties for misuse or diversion of prescriptions, and delaying skilled defense only raises the stakes.

Understanding The Charges Early

Every case begins with the arrest and charge, often under suspicion of falsifying prescriptions, doctor shopping, or diverting medication. At this phase, we focus on how the state must prove intent and fraudulent purpose. That burden of proof opens strategic defense avenues right away. We’ve handled complex cases for over a decade and helped many avoid the worst outcomes.

Investigating Evidence Thoroughly

Once charges are filed, law enforcement often relies on prescribing records, surveillance, or pharmacy logs. We dive deep into each document and interaction, seeking procedural lapses, chain-of-custody problems, or data errors. With a landmark verdict in a pill-mill case under our belt and more than ten years defending complex drug matters, we know how to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Challenging The Prosecution’s Theory

Florida courts require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, and we push back on assumptions about intent or criminal purpose. Whether it’s arguing lack of awareness of improper prescribing or questioning the state’s evidence chain, we aim to dismantle the prosecution’s theory. Our team’s trial readiness and courtroom advocacy have helped clients avoid convictions—even when the charges looked strong.

Negotiating Or Litigating Strategically

Some clients benefit from early plea negotiations—perhaps reducing charges or preserving professional licenses. Others must go to trial. We tailor our approach based on the evidence, your history, and life goals. With more than a decade of defending tough federal and state cases for Tampa clients, we craft paths that protect your future rather than just fight for today.

Post-Verdict Support And Restoration

If the case ends in conviction, we turn to post-trial options: appeals, record sealing, professional reinstatement, or mitigating sentencing. Our firm has led successful post-trial strategies that helped clients regain the ability to work or find relief from harsh penalties. We don’t just defend you in court—we stand with you after.

We transition now to the broader scope of your case and the overall path ahead with thoughtful representation.

At Stechschulte Nell, our defense does more than challenge charges—it upholds your dignity, your rights, and your future. We treat you as a person with real stakes and keep law and strategy at the heart of every case. We’re here to help—contact us today to submit your case details through our form or speak with our team.

Tampa Prescription Drug Fraud FAQ

Prescription drug fraud charges can be overwhelming and intimidating, especially for those who have never been involved with the criminal justice system before. These allegations often involve sensitive medical issues, complex regulations, and significant penalties. Because of the serious consequences, many people accused of this type of offense are unsure of where to turn or how to protect themselves. In this FAQ, we answer common questions about prescription drug fraud defense to help explain what is at stake and how an attorney can provide crucial guidance.

Who Can Face Charges For Prescription Drug Fraud?

Individuals from a wide range of backgrounds may be accused of prescription drug fraud. Patients, healthcare workers, pharmacists, and even family members may find themselves under investigation. Sometimes the charges result from misunderstandings or mistakes, such as filling a prescription for someone else or possessing medication without a valid script. In other cases, law enforcement may accuse a person of intentionally obtaining medication through false pretenses, forging prescriptions, or “doctor shopping” by visiting multiple providers.

What Types Of Actions Are Considered Prescription Fraud?

Prescription drug fraud covers a variety of activities related to the unlawful acquisition or distribution of controlled medications. Common examples include forging or altering prescriptions, using someone else’s prescription, lying to a doctor to obtain medication, or illegally selling prescription drugs. Even actions that may seem minor, like keeping an old prescription bottle with refills written on it, can lead to criminal allegations. These cases often focus on medications such as painkillers, stimulants, or anti-anxiety drugs, which are closely monitored by both state and federal authorities.

Why Is A Defense Lawyer Important In These Cases?

The consequences of a conviction go beyond fines or potential jail time. A criminal record for prescription fraud can affect employment, professional licensing, and personal relationships. A defense lawyer helps protect legal rights, challenges improper police procedures, and questions weak evidence. In many situations, an attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or treatment programs. Without proper representation, people accused of these offenses may face harsher penalties than necessary.

How Do Lawyers Help During Investigations?

When prescription drug fraud is suspected, investigations may involve reviewing pharmacy records, medical files, and prescription databases. A lawyer helps by monitoring the process, protecting client rights, and questioning whether the investigation was conducted lawfully. For example, if records were obtained without a proper warrant, evidence may be excluded from the case. Having legal support early in the investigation allows us to intervene before charges are even filed, which can make a major difference in the outcome.

Who Evaluates The Medical And Pharmacy Records?

These cases rely heavily on medical records, pharmacy data, and electronic prescription monitoring systems. Prosecutors may use this information to suggest patterns of fraud. A defense attorney works with healthcare professionals and forensic experts to review the records independently. This evaluation may reveal legitimate reasons for prescriptions, errors in pharmacy databases, or other factors that weaken the government’s case. By carefully analyzing the evidence, a lawyer can build a defense that challenges assumptions and highlights reasonable doubt.

What Steps Should Someone Take If Accused?

If someone is accused of prescription drug fraud, the first step should be contacting a lawyer before speaking with investigators. It is also important to avoid destroying or altering any records, as this can make the situation worse. Preserving medical documents, pharmacy receipts, and correspondence with healthcare providers can help strengthen the defense. Early legal involvement not only provides protection during questioning but also allows more time to prepare a defense strategy tailored to the case.

How Do Lawyers Defend Clients In Court?

When cases move to trial, defense strategies often focus on intent, medical necessity, or the accuracy of records. A lawyer may argue that the accused did not knowingly commit fraud, that there was a legitimate medical purpose for the prescription, or that the government misinterpreted the evidence. We also highlight any violations of constitutional rights during the investigation. Throughout the process, the defense attorney’s role is to advocate for the client and work toward the best possible resolution.

For those facing charges in Florida, working with a Tampa, FL prescription drug fraud lawyer can provide critical legal protection. At Stechschulte Nell, we guide clients through every stage of the process with professionalism and dedication. If you or someone you know is dealing with these allegations, contact us today to discuss your situation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and your future.