Confront Prescription Fraud Charges With A Des Moines Attorney By Your Side

Last updated on May 26, 2026

If you have been charged with prescription fraud charges, you may be up against more than just criminal charges. The collateral consequences of prescription fraud charges may be a loss of a professional license and employment – in addition to any jail time, prescription drug diversion or monetary fine you may receive.

At Spellman Law, P.C., we represent individuals and healthcare professionals, including doctors and licensed nurses, faced with prescription fraud criminal charges. As a dedicated Des Moines prescription fraud lawyer, we understand the complexities of these cases. With the rise in opioid addiction in the United States, prescription fraud charges are becoming increasingly prevalent. Our firm also handles opioid fraud cases, which often involve allegations of illegal distribution or misuse of pain medications. We know there is more to your story than a simple criminal charge you are facing. Let us help you fight your charge.

We Have Extensive Experience Defending Drug Charges

While prescription fraud charges involve unique factors, there is no question that you will need a strong defense attorney to present your case. We have experience defending a variety of drug crimes in both federal and state court. This background benefits each of our clients.

Our lawyers take a prescription fraud charge very seriously and we know that you do too. When so much is at stake – your criminal record and your professional status – we will aggressively challenge all of the evidence and charges filed against you. The consequences can be life-altering, so contact an attorney to help you evaluate all of your options.

Common Types Of Prescription Fraud

Both patients and medical professionals can face prescription fraud charges. Whether you face allegations of prescription drug fraud, pharmaceutical fraud or pharmacy fraud, each type requires a unique strategy to minimize the risk of a conviction or the penalties imposed for the charges.

Spellman Law, P.C., serves as your Des Moines prescription fraud attorney, helping medical professionals and patients in Des Moines and across central Iowa understand the charges they face and respond effectively in criminal court. The most common forms of prescription fraud cases we see include:

• Forged prescriptions/stolen prescription pads: People might take an entire prescription pad during a medical appointment or create fake prescription pads using professional-quality printers. Fabricating prescription paperwork, stealing pads and forging the signature of a physician can all lead to criminal charges.
• Doctor shopping: Seeing multiple doctors without disclosing recent treatment and prescriptions is a form of fraud. Patients who misrepresent their circumstances in pursuit of medication can face charges.
• Altering prescriptions: Tampering with a prescription by altering the dose, the number of pills or other details is a criminal act.
• Impersonation: The use of stolen or fraudulent identification to pose as a physician, pharmacist or patient to access drugs can lead to criminal charges.
• Prescription sharing: Patients may give or sell their leftover medication to others. Doing so is a crime, even if the other party has a prescription for the same medication.
• Online pharmacies: Some online pharmacies do not have proper licensing. They may operate in other countries to avoid domestic regulations or may distribute counterfeit medication. They may also fail to properly vet the medical conditions or prescriptions of their customers.
• Overprescribing: Medical professionals can face accusations of overprescribing if they write prescriptions for too much medication or too high of a dose. Failing to validate the patient’s condition or granting too many refills can also lead to overprescribing allegations.
• Insurance fraud: Those working in pharmacies may face accusations of insurance fraud if they bill for medications patients do not receive or charge insurance for brand-name drugs after dispensing cheaper generic alternatives.

The nature of the alleged prescription fraud influences the best defense strategy. Spellman Law, P.C., can help patients and professionals avoid life-altering convictions.

Contact Our Central Iowa Office Today For Help

From our office in West Des Moines, we represent clients throughout central Iowa and are available 24/7. Call our office at 515-222-4330 today to schedule a free initial consultation.