False Labeling a Controlled Substance

Did you know that in the state of Washington, it is a crime to put a false label on a bottle containing a controlled substance? Even worse, it’s a serious crime that could result in a felony conviction and up to two years in prison. If you or someone you love is facing prescription fraud charges, you need an experienced Seattle drug defense lawyer to fight for you and your future. 

Why is False Labeling of a Controlled Substance a Crime?

RCW 69.50.403(1) is the Washington State law that addresses the crime of mislabeling of controlled substances. Under this statute, it's a criminal offense if someone intentionally puts a false or forged label on a package or container that holds a controlled substance. This kind of act is taken seriously because it involves drugs or chemicals that the U.S. government strictly regulates under the Controlled Substances Act.

Controlled substances, as defined by this law, include a range of drugs that have significant potential for abuse and are subject to stringent regulatory oversight. Some common examples of these substances include, but are not limited to:

- Cocaine

- Heroin

- Codeine

- Fentanyl

- Hydrocodone

- Amphetamine

- Methamphetamine
 

These substances are known for their powerful effects and the potential harm they can cause, which is why the law is particularly strict about how they are labeled and handled.
 

The penalties for violating this law are severe. This mislabeling crime is classified as a Class C felony in Washington, which carries significant legal consequences. If convicted, you could face up to two years in state prison. Additionally, there could be a hefty financial penalty, with fines reaching up to $2,000.

Anyone involved in the handling or distribution of controlled substances needs to be acutely aware of these legal requirements and the severe consequences of non-compliance. Mislabeling controlled substances not only poses risks to public health and safety but also leads to serious legal repercussions. If you’re facing charges, you need an experienced Seattle drug defense attorney in your corner from the start. 

How Can You Fight These Charges?

When you hire an experienced Seattle drug defense lawyer to represent you, they’ll start by investigating your situation and building a solid defense for you. There are ways to fight these accusations and charges and win. 
 

One defense strategy your attorney may use is that law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation or arrest process. This may include:
 

- A coerced or forced confession

- Arrest without probable cause

- Unlawful search and seizure

Successfully proving any of these violations can lead to a reduction or even complete dismissal of the charges.

Another common defense your attorney could use is entrapment. Entrapment typically occurs when an undercover police operation is involved. This defense is grounded in the idea that the defendant was induced to commit the crime by the police, a situation that wouldn't have occurred under normal circumstances. To effectively use this defense, your legal team must show that you were not predisposed to commit the crime and only did so because of the law enforcement's persuasion or coercion.

Contact Our Experienced Seattle Drug Defense Lawyers Today

Drug charges of any kind are serious. Tampering with the labels on controlled substances can get you into serious legal trouble and result in significant time in jail. When you’re facing criminal charges, you need an experienced Seattle drug defense lawyer fighting for you and your rights. 
 

Our Seattle criminal defense lawyers know that you need someone on your side as quickly as possible As such, if you’ve been arrested or are under investigation call us immediately. At Lewis & Laws, PLLC, we have defended clients in Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, and throughout the state of Washington. Contact us today at 206.209.0608 or fill out our confidential contact form. Call us today!