Needing prescription medication is something that most people in Iowa and across the country will experience at some point in their lives. Whether they need anything ranging from a simple antibiotic to an opioid pain reliever, a valid prescription is necessary to obtain and use those medications.
If a person does not have a valid prescription or cannot prove that he or she has one, serious legal repercussions could result if approached by law enforcement. If authorities have recently taken you into custody on suspicion of prescription drug possession or distribution, you may undoubtedly feel worried about the predicament. What could it mean for you?
Unfortunately, if you have formal drug possession charges brought against you and face a conviction in court, you could face steep monetary penalties as well as time in jail. The exact outcomes can depend on a number of factors, including whether authorities suspect that you unlawfully acquired the prescription drugs, had them in your possession, or distributed or intended to distribute them. Other factors that may affect your case include the following:
The type of drug involved
The amount of the drug allegedly discovered
Whether you have a valid prescription but did not have proof at the time
Even if you have a prescription for a particular medication, if authorities suspect that you possess the drug in a different form than prescribed, such as having extended-release capsules in your possession though your doctor-prescribed tablets, you could still face criminal charges. If you have medication that a doctor previously prescribed but the prescription expired, legal issues could result, which is also the case if you have a valid prescription but do not have the prescription label on the bottle or other container.
When many people think of prescription drug possession charges, they may think of someone intentionally trying to thwart the law, but that is not always the case. An improperly repackaged prescription, missing label or other issue could just as easily lead to misdemeanor or even felony charges. Fortunately, even if this is your predicament, you are innocent until — and only if — considered guilty by a court of law. As a result, you may want to take the time to thoroughly assess the details of your arrest to understand the situation.
A domestic abuse conviction in Des Moines, Iowa carries severe legal, social, and personal consequences that can affect many aspects of an individual's life. The repercussions extend beyond the courtroom, influencing employment chances, housing options, child custody rights, and more.
Kent Balduchi at Balduchi Law Office, PC in Des Moines, Iowa, often addresses questions from individuals dealing with domestic abuse issues and seeking restraining orders. Domestic violence can take many forms, from verbal threats to physical harm, and Iowa courts permit victims to file for restraining orders when they face immediate or ongoing danger.
Facing an assault or battery charge can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. These charges carry serious consequences, including hefty fines, probation, or even jail time. However, an accusation doesn't always lead to a conviction. There are several legal defenses that can help individuals fight these charges and protect their rights.
