Prescription Fraud Attorney in Seattle

Accused of Prescription Fraud? Contact Us for Aggressive Defense

If you are facing prescription fraud accusations in Seattle, you may feel alarmed by the possibility of criminal charges, the impact on your professional future, and the uncertainty of what comes next. Whether the Seattle Police Department or a local medical authority has questioned you, the fear and confusion are real. Prescription fraud cases can threaten your reputation, your career, and your freedom.

With decades of defending clients in situations like yours, we understand that every moment matters after an accusation. Many people worry not only about arrest but also about losing their job, professional license, or standing in the community. You need answers and a clear path forward—not just legal advice, but honest guidance focused on your specific situation.

As prescription fraud attorneys in Seattle, we have personally handled every case for over 27 years at Hale Law Enterprises. Our top priority is to help you understand your rights, reduce your anxiety, and immediately begin building your defense. If you have already been contacted by police or are worried about an investigation, reaching out for guidance as soon as possible makes a difference.

Call (206) 207-4776 or reach out online to speak with a Seattle prescription fraud lawyer who brings 28 years of experience to your defense. The initial consultation is free.

Understanding Prescription Fraud Laws in Washington

Prescription fraud is a crime of deception used to illegally acquire controlled substances (e.g., OxyContin, Adderall, Xanax). The law is broad and covers numerous deceptive acts, making it easy for prosecutors to secure a charge based on minimal evidence.

Common Acts of Prescription Fraud (RCW 69.50.401)

The statute prohibits any attempt to obtain a controlled substance by:

• Forgery: Altering a legitimate prescription or forging a doctor’s signature.
• Deceit or Misrepresentation: Lying to a doctor about symptoms or previous prescriptions ("doctor shopping").
• Withholding Information: Failing to inform a practitioner that you are already receiving the same or a similar drug from another source.
• Using a False Name/Address: Presenting false identifying information at a pharmacy.

Penalties for Prescription Fraud Convictions in Seattle

A single act of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud is generally classified as a Class C Felony.

• Imprisonment: Up to 5 years in state prison.
• Fines: Up to $10,000.
• Felony Record: A permanent felony conviction that cannot be easily expunged, leading to loss of civil rights (firearm possession) and significant career impact.

The severity of a Class C Felony conviction demands an experienced Seattle prescription fraud lawyer who can negotiate a non-felony resolution or entry into a specialty court program.

Professional and Collateral Consequences

• Professional Licensing: Individuals in licensed professions (doctors, nurses, pharmacists, teachers, pilots) face immediate and potentially permanent revocation of their state licenses upon a felony drug conviction.
• Immigration Issues: A felony drug conviction, even for possession or fraud, can trigger mandatory deportation or render a non-citizen inadmissible to the United States.
• Loss of Civil Rights: A felony conviction results in the automatic loss of the right to possess firearms.
• Insurance and Housing: A felony record creates significant barriers to securing rental housing and employment, particularly in competitive areas like Seattle.

Mitigation and Diversion Options (DOSA)

One of the most powerful tools available to a prescription fraud attorney in Seattle is the Drug Offender Sentencing Alternative (DOSA) (RCW 9.94A.660).

• Eligibility: DOSA allows eligible individuals (non-violent, first-time, or low-scoring offenders whose crime is linked to addiction) to serve part of their sentence in a structured, intensive chemical dependency treatment program in the community instead of the Department of Corrections.

We aggressively advocate for DOSA eligibility, as successful completion of the program allows the individual to avoid the harshest prison sentence and receive the treatment necessary to break the cycle of addiction, which often underlies prescription fraud.

The Seattle Criminal Defense Process for Prescription Fraud

Prescription fraud cases in Seattle are prosecuted based on paper trails, computer records, and testimony from pharmacy or medical staff. Our firm focuses on disrupting this evidence at the source.

• Challenging the Initial Stop/Search: We review the circumstances leading to the arrest. If the traffic stop or search was illegal, we file motions to suppress any incriminating physical evidence or statements, which can lead to the dismissal of the charge.
• Medical Records and Pharmacy Logs: We scrutinize the prosecution's evidence, including the defendant's medical history and the pharmacy's dispensing records. We often uncover errors in the records or show that the "misrepresentation" was due to poor record-keeping, not malicious intent.
• Challenging the Document: If the charge involves a forged or altered prescription document, we retain forensic document examiners to challenge the authenticity or argue that the alteration was clerical or accidental, not intentional.
• DOSA Advocacy and Negotiation: Our firm works with chemical dependency evaluators to prepare a strong DOSA petition for the court. Simultaneously, we negotiate with the King County Prosecutor's Office for a plea to a lesser, non-felony charge (such as a gross misdemeanor), thus protecting the client from a permanent felony record.

Why Seattle Chooses Matthew T. Hale for Prescription Fraud Defense

Experience and personal attention are critical when navigating prescription fraud allegations. At Hale Law Enterprises, you get both. We bring more than 27 years of experience defending those accused of drug-related offenses in Seattle, and our attorney personally oversees every case. This ensures your defense is not handed off, but instead receives the detailed care and local knowledge your situation deserves.

Our approach is reflected in over 250 five-star Google reviews and positive outcomes for clients in both high-profile and everyday cases.

Clients in Seattle value these key benefits:

• Direct attorney access. Attorney Hale personally manages every phase of your defense.
• Rapid response and 24/7 communication. We are available when you need guidance, especially in urgent situations.
• Free, confidential consultations. Your first call comes with no risk or obligation.
• Bilingual support (English and Spanish). Everyone receives respect and clear communication.

You deserve support from a prescription fraud lawyer with a proven track record in Seattle, not just a generic law firm. Our commitment is to handle your case with the same care we would expect for our own family.

What to Do If You’re Under Investigation or Arrested

If you find yourself under investigation or facing arrest for prescription fraud in Seattle, what you do next is especially important. Mistakes in the early stages may have long-term consequences, so protecting your rights is critical.

Here are the first steps you should take right away:

• Do not speak to police or investigators without first contacting a prescription fraud attorney in Seattle. Anything you say can be used as evidence, even if you believe you are not at fault.
• Save all documents and communication related to your prescriptions, medical treatment, and any contact from providers or authorities. This information forms a key part of your defense.
• Do not destroy or change any evidence. Doing so could make your situation worse and result in additional penalties.
• Contact our office immediately. Quick intervention gives us the best opportunity to influence the investigation and protect your record, your license, and your future.

In Seattle, prosecutors and law enforcement often move quickly, filing charges as soon as they believe they have the minimum evidence. Having a lawyer involved early allows us to advise you on every communication and action, helping avoid missteps and offering the best chance to resolve matters favorably.

Get Help Now: Free & Confidential Consultation

If you are under investigation or have already been charged, early action with a prescription fraud lawyer Seattle relies on can change your outcome. Your first consult is always free and strictly confidential at Hale Law Enterprises. There is no cost or obligation, and all discussions are fully protected. We offer services in both English and Spanish to serve the Seattle community.

For immediate support or to schedule your free consultation, call (206) 207-4776 or contact us online. Your privacy and peace of mind are our highest priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my professional license if accused of prescription fraud in Seattle?

Prescription fraud charges in Seattle can affect your professional license, but licensing boards consider each case individually. The Washington State Department of Health typically starts its own review after a criminal allegation involving healthcare professionals. If criminal charges are dismissed or resolved favorably, it can help in license defense, but each board weighs the legal outcome, the underlying facts, and your explanation or evidence. Our approach coordinates both the legal defense in court and responds to parallel proceedings with licensing agencies to protect your career wherever possible.

How quickly should I contact an attorney if I’m under investigation?

You should reach out to a prescription fraud attorney as soon as you suspect any investigation or after first contact by authorities in Seattle. Early legal representation allows you to manage communication with law enforcement, prevent unintended admissions, and respond appropriately if charges are filed. We provide 24/7 access because early advice can limit consequences or even prevent charges from being formally filed.

What makes your approach different from other Seattle defense lawyers?

Clients in Seattle choose us because our attorney personally handles every stage of a prescription fraud case and provides direct, honest advice rooted in more than 27 years of criminal defense experience. Unlike firms where you only meet your attorney in court, we work with you directly from start to finish, and our reputation is built on outcomes and over 250 five-star client reviews. This one-on-one attention means your defense accounts for your career, record, and goals—not just for the case file.

Can you help if my prescription fraud case involves addiction or a medical issue?

Yes, we frequently defend Seattle clients whose prescription fraud charges relate to addiction, health crises, or chronic pain conditions. Courts and licensing boards in Washington often take rehabilitation efforts and underlying medical facts into account. Our role is to show a complete picture—including any treatment, therapy, or doctor recommendations—that may prompt a more lenient or supportive resolution. Every client’s situation is unique, and we help identify resources or mitigating arguments as part of your defense.

What should I do if police want to question me about a prescription?

If police or investigators in Seattle reach out about a prescription, you have the right to request legal counsel and decline to answer questions until you speak with an attorney. Do not explain your side or share your perspective without legal advice, as these statements can be misinterpreted or used as evidence. Swift representation helps avoid misunderstandings and protects against unnecessary escalation by law enforcement or prosecutors.

Is my consultation really confidential and free?

Absolutely. Every initial conversation with our office is both free and strictly confidential. Nothing you share leaves our discussion, and you are not obligated to hire our firm unless you choose. Your information is protected by attorney-client privilege from the first call, and you will always speak directly with us in English or Spanish if needed. There is no risk in reaching out for counsel before making any decisions in your case.

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