Administrative Law – DEA Registration

Individuals and businesses entities, such as physicians, pharmacists, wholesale distributors, manufacturers, and pharmacies that distribute or manufacture controlled substances or listed chemicals are required by federal law to obtain a registration from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.

Registrations are issued and renewed by the DEA under the specific provisions of the Controlled Substance Abuse Prevention Act. The failure to follow the rules and regulations promulgated by the DEA under this Act can lead to the imposition of civil fines, with maximum statutory penalties ranging up to $25,000 per violation. The DEA often uses violations of these rules and regulations as grounds to institute registration revocation proceedings before the U.S. Department of Justice.

Revocation proceedings before the U.S. Department of Justice follow a specific set of procedural and substantive rules and guidelines. These differ from the general rules in state and federal courts, and require that your attorney possess a working knowledge of the Code of Federal Regulations, the Federal Register, and the Administrative Procedures Act.

A final decision by the DEA Deputy Administrator revoking a DEA registrant’s registration can bring dire consequences for the registrant. If the ongoing operation of that registrant’s business is dependent on its continued registration with the DEA, the loss of that registration can lead to the collapse of the business. In addition, DEA registrants registered with state-licensing boards can also be subjected to discipline by the respective licensing authority for revocation of their DEA license.

The practice of Connelly, Jackson, & Collier LLP includes litigating and resolving claims brought by the DEA seeking civil penalties for violations of the Controlled Substance Abuse Prevention Act. Attorneys for the firm have represented DEA Registrants in the states of Ohio, Tennessee, Illinois, Mississippi, Utah, and Montana in connection with civil and administrative license revocation proceedings brought by the DEA.