What Are Counterfeit Controlled Substances in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, counterfeit controlled substances mainly revolve around representation and belief. Therefore, you’ll be charged with a counterfeit controlled substance offense if you make someone believe that a substance is a controlled substance.
Unfortunately, the substance doesn’t have to be illegal. You could still face counterfeit drug charges even when a substance is completely harmless and legal. In North Carolina, a counterfeit drug may include:
- Any controlled substance that is falsely labeled with a drug trade name, trademark, or any other identifying mark
- Any substance intentionally represented as a controlled substance but, in fact, is a different substance
- Any substance with no identifying marks or labels is represented as if they were made by a certain manufacturer, distributor, or company when in fact, it was made by someone else
- Any substance packaged, delivered, or sold in a manner normally used for the illegal delivery of controlled substances
- If the physical appearance of the tablets, capsules, or other finished products of the substance is identical to that of a controlled substance
Counterfeit controlled substance charges are quite complicated in North Carolina. If you or your loved one has been charged with a crime involving a counterfeit drug, you should immediately contact our experienced North Carolina drug lawyers. Our drug crime attorneys understand your situation and will diligently fight for you.
Counterfeit Controlled Substance Charges in North Carolina
Counterfeit controlled substance charges encompass a wide range of offenses. Depending on the nature of your case, you may be charged with the following:
- Creating a counterfeit controlled substance
- Selling or delivering a counterfeit controlled substance
- Trafficking fake drugs
- Fraudulent drug advertising
- Possession of a counterfeit drug with intent to sell or deliver
You may be charged with counterfeiting drugs if you make, sell, promote or deliver any fake drug as an actual drug. These are serious charges in North Carolina that come with devastating consequences. Our attorneys have many years of experience and know how to handle drug-related cases. We can aggressively represent you in court and help you get the best outcome possible.
Penalties for Counterfeit Controlled Substance Charges
Offenses related to making, selling, and distributing counterfeit controlled substances are considered felonies in North Carolina. Therefore, a fake drug conviction can result in severe penalties, long jail times, and fines.
In North Carolina, creating a counterfeit controlled substance is a Class I felony, so you could receive a sentence of between 12 and 24 months if found guilty. The penalties are harsher if you have a criminal record. If the counterfeit drugs went beyond North Carolina, you might face federal criminal charges, which carry harsher penalties.
If you’re being charged with making counterfeit controlled substances, you should immediately get help from an experienced lawyer. Our dedicated NC criminal defense lawyers know which defense strategies are effective and may help you negotiate for a lesser sentence or even have your charges dropped.
Effects of Having a Counterfeit Drug Conviction on Your Criminal Record
A charge involving a counterfeit drug cannot be taken lightly. Besides spending many months in prison, getting a conviction for creating a counterfeit controlled substance can significantly interfere with your life. Some of the additional consequences of having a drug conviction on your record may include:
- Losing your job or being turned down by employers
- Landlords may deny you access to rental housing
- Losing your professional license or be denied applying for one
- Losing your eligibility for financial aid
- Losing your immigration status, work permit, or denial of citizenship and possibly facing deportation if you’re a non-US citizen
- Being denied admission to college
Being arrested on forged drug charges is one of the most intimidating, if not terrifying, situations. It comes with a list of life-changing consequences that can affect you and your family. You should let our knowledgeable, competent criminal defense attorneys help you build a strong defense and fight for your rights.
How a Reputable Drug Crime Defense Attorney Can Help
When you’re facing a counterfeit drug manufacture charge, it is important that you have a drug defense attorney on your side. Hiring a lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. They can help you by:
- Thoroughly investigating and challenging the charges you face
- Exploring the defense options that suit your particular circumstances
- Helping prevent a drug crime conviction
- Helping prevent the more serious consequences of jail or prison time
- Guiding you through the complex legal process
Drug defense attorneys are invaluable when it comes to defending yourself and fighting for your rights. If you’re looking for a high-skilled drug defense attorney, look no further than King Law. We have the right experience, knowledge, and skills to handle all cases involving counterfeit drugs.
Contact a Reputable North Carolina Counterfeit Drugs Defense Lawyer at King Law
North Carolina treats counterfeit drug charges seriously, irrespective of whether the drug was illicit. Your best chance at fighting these charges is to seek the help of an experienced North Carolina counterfeit drugs lawyer. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that the best NC criminal defense lawyers at King Law are working on your case.
At King Law, we use our extensive expertise and experience to help formulate the best legal defense and possibly get your charges dropped or lowered. Our well-versed lawyers have a deep understanding of the law and are more than willing to represent and fight for you. If you or someone you know is facing counterfeit drug charges, don’t hesitate to call us at (888) 748-5464 or (888) 748-KING. You can also fill out our contact form.