horwitzPain is a problem for many who suffer from illnesses such as cancer or injuries from accidents. For those victims, relief is often found in prescription medications such as percocet, hydrocodone, or oxycontin. Many pain relievers, however, are subject to abuse and are the target of law enforcement efforts to control a perceived illegal drug problem.

The laws concerning controlled substances are strict and can result in harsh jail sentences. It is a felony in Florida for a person to obtain a prescription for a controlled substance without informing the doctor that he received a prescription for a controlled substance of like therapeutic use from another doctor within the previous 30 days.

The penalty for possessing controlled substances like oxycodone without a valid prescription is harsher than you may realize. Possessing any oxycodone at all without a prescription is a felony. However, the penalties increase as the weight of the substance increases. Prescription medications typically combine a small amount of controlled substance with other fillers, and the law considers the total weight of the mixture. Possession of as few as 14 oxycodone pills can subject someone to a conviction for trafficking, punishable by a minimum term of 3 years imprisonment, and a maximum term of 30 years.

The drug laws are vigorously enforced and should not be ignored. Even giving a friend in pain one’s own properly prescribed medication can subject both persons to a felony conviction.

Law Offices of Mark L. Horwitz, P.A.
17 East Pine Street
Orlando, FL 32801
P: 407-843-7733
F: 407-849-1321
mark@mlhorwitzlaw.com
www.mlhorwitzlaw.com