Illegal Prescription Drug Possession Charges for California Teenagers

Illegal use of over-the-counter drugs is a growing problem in California. According to a report by The Office of National Drug Control Policy, more people between the ages of 12 and 17 use prescription drugs to get high than any other illicit drug, excluding marijuana. These drugs are often taken from the youths’ home or from friends. Juveniles facing serious allegations of possessing illegal prescription drugs would be well-advised to seek the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

The most popular pharmaceutical drugs that are illegally obtained include Oxycontin, Vicodin, Oxycodone, and Percocet. Under California law, it is illegal to sell, possess, and transport these drugs without a proper license or prescription. Juveniles found possessing illegal drugs without a prescription may face serious penalties, including juvenile incarceration and community service.

Juvenile prescription drug cases should be handled by a highly qualified drug offense lawyer. Depending on the circumstances, a skilled attorney may be able to have the drug charges dropped or the criminal record of the youth sealed. Minors charged with drug offenses deserve to be treated not as criminals, but as youth who need guidance and a second chance to get their lives back on track.

The experienced Los Angeles juvenile drug crime attorneys at Sitkoff & Hanrahan understand the ramifications a criminal record can have on a young person’s life. A prescription drug possession conviction can go on a young person’s permanent record and potentially affect their chances to get into a good school or obtain employment. If your child is facing illegal prescription charges, please contact our law offices at 1-866-430-8383 right away to find out how we can help.