Abuse of this prescription drug is increasingly popular
Many people require stimulant medications in order to function. Anyone with a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy or certain other conditions may benefit from stimulants such as Adderall, which is a mixture of amphetamines. This medication can have many positive effects — but, like many other prescription medications, it also has a potential for abuse.
As a type of amphetamine, Adderall can be used improperly to “get high.” It may also be used to lose weight, as it suppresses a person’s appetite, or even to increase focus. But as a drug defense lawyer Los Angeles, CA can explain, even though Adderall is a prescription drug, using it without a valid prescription can land you in hot water. In fact, the possession of Adderall is a criminal offense.
Under California law, if you possess Adderall or another stimulant drug such as Concerta or Ritalin without a valid prescription, you are in violation of California Health and Safety Code 11350. Adderall and similar drugs are considered controlled substances under this law. If a person possesses it — which means that they have it on their person — without a valid prescription — they violate this law.
Unlawful possession of a controlled substance is typically charged as a misdemeanor under this code section. However, it may be charged as a felony if the defendant has a prior conviction for a serious felony. If charged as a misdemeanor, it is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and incarceration in county jail for up to one year.
While taking Adderall, Concerta or another stimulant drug may seem relatively harmless, these consequences show that there are real life consequences — including potential jail time. Unless you have a prescription for these types of drugs, you could be charged with a crime for taking them.
However, there are potential defenses to this offense. A skilled drug defense lawyer Los Angeles, CA could argue that you did not know that you had the drugs in your possession. For example, if you borrowed a purse from your sister, who has a prescription for Ritalin, that could be a defense to the charges. Alternatively, if your friend left some pills in your car and you were later stopped, where the cops discovered them, your drug defense lawyer Los Angeles, CA could argue that you didn’t have knowledge of the pills. Your attorney could also argue that the drugs were found during an illegal search — or, the ultimate defense — that you had a valid prescription for your Adderall.
If you have been charged with a crime, you will need a skilled attorney to represent you. The Chambers Law Firm can help. Contact us today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com to schedule a free initial consultation with a drug defense lawyer Los Angeles, CA.
