In the state of Texas, drug crimes are taken especially seriously. This includes both street drugs as well as prescription drugs distribution as well. Furthermore, medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, pharmacist, and paramedics have heightened accountability when it comes to the ability to distribute prescription drugs.
Penalties for health care professionals found guilty of diverting prescription drugs include felony charges carrying severe penalties including jail time and expensive fines. A conviction could also cost you your professional license. To combat this type of serious charge, you need an experienced defense lawyer who understands the serious consequences of a drug diversion charge.
Travis County Diversion of Controlled Substance Defense Attorney
Attorney Kevin Bennett has experience defending clients against all types of charges. Not only has he worked to defend clients against drug charges, but he has also defended clients from violent crime charges, DUIs, weapon charges, and a series of different types of crimes.
If you have had the misfortune of being accused of diversion of a controlled substance or other felony drug crime, call The Law Office of Kevin Bennett at (512) 476-4626 for a free consultation to discuss your next steps. This firm operates out of Austin and accepts clients in Austin, Lago Vista, Lakeway, Pflugerville, Westlake Hills and throughout Travis County.
Diversion of Controlled Substance Information Center
- Diversion of controlled substance
- Penalties for diversion of controlled substance conviction
- More information on diversion of controlled substance
Diversion of Controlled Substance
Under Texas Code §481.1285 states that a person commits this offense if he or she knowingly does any of the following:
- Converts to the person’s own use or benefit a controlled substance to which the person has access by virtue of the person’s profession or employment; or
- Diverts to the unlawful use or benefit of another person a controlled substance to which the person has access by virtue of the person’s profession or employment.
Penalties for Diversion of Controlled Substance Conviction
The penalty for Diversion of a Controlled Substance conviction is normally considered a state jail felony in the State of Texas. However, a person can be charged with a third-degree felony of they are accused of diverting the controlled substance to the unlawful use or benefit of another person.
- State Jail Felony: 180 days to two years in state jail and a fine up to $10,000
- Third Degree Felony: Two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
This type of offense can lead to years in prison, probation, fines, or a series of other penalties. These types of offenses can leave permanent marks on your criminal record. This may lead to a loss of professional licenses, thus limited employment opportunities in the future.
More Information on Diversion of Controlled Substance
Recovery.org– This site offers contact information on the top rehabilitation centers in Texas.
DRS– Search this organization’s site for resources for individuals suffering from addiction.
The Law Office of Kevin Bennett Austin Diversion of Controlled Substance Attorney
If you are a medical professional who has been charged with diverting controlled substances , your professional career is at risk. You need the assistance of a criminal defense attorney who can work to defend you against these claims and maintain your professional reputation.
Call The Law Office of Kevin Bennett at (512) 476-4626 to set up your free consultation with a skilled attorney. This firm offers service to clients in Austin, Oak Hill, Tarrytown, West Austin, Hyde Park, Pflugerville, and Travis County.
