Protecting Yourself When You Are Under Investigation by the DEA

 Posted on January 26, 2020 in Medical License Defense

The United State’s Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a federal entity whose main task is to make sure that drugs are being used, sold, manufactured and prescribed correctly and within the confines of the law. One of the ways the DEA accomplishes this is by performing audits and investigations on physicians and their practices. For doctors and their employees, this can be a cause for concern because even a small slip up can become a serious issue. If you have become the subject of a DEA investigation, you should act quickly and immediately hire a medical license defense lawyer.

Understanding DEA Investigations

The DEA routinely conducts audits at the practices of physicians who are permitted to prescribe controlled substances. Typically, you can expect an audit every three years to determine if you are being compliant with all applicable laws. The DEA may also perform an audit if they have reason to believe something illegal may be taking place. This typically begins the investigation process and involves the DEA auditing your patient files. It is possible that the DEA or FBI may also request an interview with you to attempt to gather more information. If they have probable cause to believe that you have not been complying with the Controlled Substance Act, you may also receive a search warrant for your office or practice.

What to Do if You Suspect an Audit or Investigation

If you have been contacted by the DEA or FBI for any reason relating to controlled substances, you should immediately get in touch with a DEA defense lawyer. If the DEA has reached out to you, it probably means they are suspicious of the distribution, use or prescribing of controlled substances from your practice. Your lawyer should immediately begin to look over patient files and records, looking for anything that the DEA might see as a red flag.

You should also remember that you should not speak to any DEA or FBI official without first contact an attorney. Even though you have not been charged with a crime, you still have the right to have your attorney with you when you are being questioned. Do not voluntarily offer up information because you never know what will be used against you.

An Illinois DEA Defense Attorney Can Be the Most Valuable Weapon in Your Arsenal

With all of the years dedicated to medical education and training and all of the heart and soul you have put into your job, it can be scary to think that your medical license is at risk. At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc., we know how quickly a DEA audit can turn into an investigation. We believe that all physicians have the right to know what their rights are and how they can combat any charges against them. Our skilled Illinois DEA defense lawyer will help you understand all of the options available to you if your medical license is at stake. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at 630-310-1267.

Sources:

https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/prog_dscrpt/index.html

https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/21cfr/21usc/841.htm