Monday

21

October 2024

Change Healthcare data breach lawsuit: How much compensation is available from a class action sign-up?

Written by , Posted in Consumer Law, Cybersecurity Law, Statutory Law

If you’ve received notification from Change Healthcare about their 2024 data breach, you might be wondering what steps to take next and how much compensation you could be eligible for. As well as how to sign up and join the class action lawsuit.

There are basically three ways to join and pursue compensation from this large-scale cyber attack:

  1. Class Action Lawsuit: Traditional class action suits allow a group of individuals to sue a defendant collectively. Several notable law firms in the U.S. are pursuing this strategy which can address widespread harm efficiently, however individual payouts are often lower than expected.
  2. Mass Action Lawsuit: This strategy involves multiple plaintiffs filing individual lawsuits that are handled collectively by the same law firm. Mass action combines the efficiency of class actions with the personalized attention of individual cases, potentially leading to higher compensation.
  3. Individual Lawsuit: Filing a lawsuit on your own can be time-consuming and costly but allows for personalized representation.

Change Healthcare Data Breach Lawsuit Sign-Up

If you received an official letter or email notification from Change Healthcare about the data breach/cyber attack in 2024, you can join the mass action lawsuit by filling out this form.

The link above goes to the Change Healthcare lawsuit claim form on Mason LLP’s website where you can sign up securely. Mason LLP is leading the charge in mass action for data breach cases in the U.S. and is actively involved in the Change Healthcare / UnitedHealth breach. They have recovered over $1 billion for their clients in the past 30 years.

Why Mass Action May Result in a Larger Lawsuit Payout

We’ve seen mass action lawsuits becoming a powerful alternative to traditional class actions, particularly in cases involving cases like the one experienced in 2024 by Change Healthcare–one of the largest medical data breaches in history.. Here’s why mass action might be the optimal choice for you, the plaintiff:

Personalized Representation

Unlike class actions, where all plaintiffs are treated as a single entity, mass action allows each plaintiff’s unique circumstances to be considered. This means your specific damages—such as the extent of your data compromised or any financial losses you incurred (for example, losses due to identity theft, credit or insurance fraud, reputational damage from publicly disclosed medical information, among many others)—are individually assessed.

Higher Settlement Potential

Mass action lawsuits often result in more substantial settlements for individuals compared to class actions. Since each case is evaluated on its own merits, there’s a greater opportunity for higher compensation. I.e., based on the damages each individual suffered and its impact on their life and lifestyle.

Faster and More Efficient

While mass actions involve multiple individual cases, they benefit from collective efficiency. Law firms can streamline the process by utilizing similar evidence and legal arguments across cases, potentially leading to faster resolutions than individual lawsuits.

Q: What about the United Healthcare breach?

A: UnitedHealth Group owns Change Healthcare, and the 2024 hack may affect United Healthcare customers. If additional lawsuits arise, you can sign up for the United Healthcare class action suit as well with the help of the law firm handling your case.

Q: How do I join the class action lawsuit against Change Healthcare ?

A: You can join by filling out the Change Healthcare data breach lawsuit sign-up form provided here or at the end of this page.

How can I join the Change Healthcare lawsuit?

If you’re affected by the Change Healthcare data breach and want to pursue compensation, follow these steps to see if you qualify to sue this healthcare company:

  1. Confirm Your Eligibility:
    • Verify that you received an official letter or other notification from Change Healthcare about the data breach.
    • If unsure, contact them or navigate to their online information page.
  2. Gather Necessary Documentation:
    • Collect any communications from Change / United Healthcare regarding the breach.
    • Document any suspicious activity or identity theft incidents.
    • Keep records of time and money spent addressing the breach.
  3. Join the Class Action Action Lawsuit / Mass Action Lawsuit:
    • Complete the Change Healthcare lawsuit claim form provided by Mason LLP.
    • Provide accurate personal information, details of how you were affected, and any supporting documents.
  4. Consult with Your Legal Team:
    • Law firms experienced in data breach litigation such as Mason LLP can guide you through the process.
    • Firms handling this case operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only pay if they win your case.
  5. Stay Informed:
    • Keep in regular contact with your legal team once you’ve sued and joined the class action suit / mass action suit.
    • Monitor updates regarding the lawsuit and any settlement offers from Change Healthcare.

How Much Compensation Might Be Available?

While exact amounts can’t be predicted for everyone who signs up and joins the lawsuit, compensation in data breach cases may include:

  • Reimbursement: For out-of-pocket expenses related to the breach.
  • Damages for Time Spent: Compensation for time addressing the breach’s consequences.
  • Credit Monitoring Services: Provision of services to protect against future identity theft.
  • Emotional Distress: In some cases, damages for stress or anxiety caused by the breach.

The important thing to keep in mind is that mass action lawsuits can yield higher individual settlements compared to class actions, where payouts might be minimal ($5-20 per plaintiff is something we’ve seen over and over again with typical class actions)

Join the Change Healthcare Lawsuit and Claim Compensation

If you’ve been affected by the 2024 data hack/breach, you may be entitled to join and claim compensation for the exposure of your personal information, private data and HIPPA-protected medical records and any resulting damages arising from the breach. 

If you received a letter or email notification from Change Healthcare or United Healthcare about the data breach and want to sign up online, you can join the mass action lawsuit by filling out this claim form.

change-healthcare-united-logo-large-white-banner

Tuesday

27

August 2024

RealPage lawsuit: Can tenants recover 15-21% of their rent since 2016 if they join and sue?

Written by , Posted in Administrative Law, Antitrust Law, Consumer Law, Contract Law

Answer: Maybe. Based on the claims made by Mason LLP, a law firm known for its experience in mass arbitration and class action lawsuits, current and past tenants who sign up and join the price-fixing antitrust lawsuit against RealPage (see below for how to sue RealPage) and their property management company may potentially recover between 15-21% of their apartment rent paid since 2016 in a settlement.

Realpage settlement quick details: Mass arbitration firms such as Mason LLP base their settlement estimates on the alleged 5-7% overcharge implemented by multifamily landlords throughout the U.S. since 2016, based off of RealPage’s YieldStar software product, combined with the Sherman Anti-Trust Act’s provision for treble damages. This suggests that for an average renter, this could amount to a recovery of around $5,184 in compensation before the deduction of legal fees and costs.

RealPage lawsuit 2024 – how to join:

If you have lived in a property managed by one of the defendants or another company using RealPage’s revenue management software, you can join the lawsuit by filling out this form.


Lawsuit Update – August 2024

Update on the 2024 RealPage Inc lawsuit: Several mass arbitration law firms in 2024 are now pursuing direct action claims on behalf of apartment/condo renters against RealPage. They are taking a different approach to this lawsuit compared to the main class actions.

In simple terms, instead of joining the big group lawsuit where everyone is lumped together, they’re preparing to file separate lawsuits for each individual renter/plaintiff who becomes their client. This strategy is called “direct action.” This is a significant and positive update.

In a class action, it’s like everyone affected joins one big team and gets an equal share of whatever is won. But with direct action claims, these specialist law firms are essentially creating individual teams for each of their clients. This approach might lead to much higher settlement amount for each renter/plaintiff that was affected.

By handling cases one-by-one, law firms such as Mason LLP hope to focus on the specific details of each renter’s situation. This could potentially lead to higher compensation payout for their clients compared to what they might get in the class action, where individual circumstances might get lost in the crowd.

It’s important to note that while this approach might have potential benefits, it also comes with its own risks and challenges. The potential for a higher settlement must be weighed against factors such as individual case strength, time investment, and possible legal costs.

How Can I Join the Lawsuit and Sue to Claim Compensation?

If you have lived in a property managed by one of the defendants or another company using RealPage Inc’s revenue management service to set rental prices anytime since 2016, you may be affected by this rental housing price-fixing/rent-fixing case and can sue.

This case affects renters in several states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, the District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and Washington. 

To learn more about your potential claim and how to join the lawsuit, you can complete this form to sign up.


Why This RealPage Litigation is Likely to Be Successful for Plaintiff Payouts?

By all indications, this “cartel/collusion” type case against RealPage has the potential to result in substantial settlements and payouts due to the following:

Extensive Investigation: As of July 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is conducting thorough civil and criminal probes into RealPage, indicating the merit of allegations of collusion and price-fixing.

State-Level Investigations: State attorneys general, including those from D.C., Arizona, and North Carolina, have launched probes and lawsuits against RealPage and major landlords.

Multiple Legal Fronts: The case is pursued on various fronts, including DOJ suits, criminal investigations, class-action lawsuits, and specialist law firm claims, increasing pressure on RealPage.

Antitrust Implications: The DOJ’s focus on potential antitrust violations suggests serious market manipulation, often resulting in significant penalties and damages.

Widespread Impact: The allegations impact many renters, leading to a large class of plaintiffs and potentially larger settlements or judgments.

Treble Damages: Under the Sherman Act, if RealPage is found liable, they could pay up to three times the actual damages, significantly increasing the payout.

Direct Action Approach: The strategy of pursuing individual claims rather than a class action could lead to higher settlements for renters.

Estimated Overcharges: Claims that renters were consistently overcharged by 5-7% since 2016 provide a basis for calculating significant damages.

Government Involvement: DOJ participation and support lend credibility to the claims and may increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome for renters.

Ongoing Industry Scrutiny: The Biden administration’s focus on anti-competitive practices, including in housing, suggests alignment with broader regulatory priorities.


Who are the Defendants (Landlords and Management Companies) Accused of Price-Fixing their rent?

Below is a list of affected “Lessor Defendants” that used RealPage’s rent setting software that you can sue depending on which one(s) were your landlord. There are likely more, but this is the list we currently have based on our research at IsThatLegal.org, including property management companies and apartment complex owners:

  • Alliance Residential Company
  • AMLI Residential
  • Apartment Income REIT Corp
  • Apartment Management Consultants LLC
  • Asset Living, LLC
  • Avenue5 Residential, LLC
  • AvalonBay Communities, Inc.
  • BH Management Services, LLC
  • Bozzuto Management Company
  • Camden Property Trust
  • CONAM Management Corporation
  • Cortland Partners, LLC
  • Cushman & Wakefield, Inc.
  • CWS Apartment Homes, LLC
  • Equity Residential
  • Essex Property Trust, Inc.
  • FPI Management, Inc.
  • Greystar Real Estate Partners, LLC
  • Highmark Residential, LLC
  • Lincoln Property Company
  • Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc.
  • Mission Rock Residential, LLC
  • The Morgan Group Inc.
  • Morgan Properties, LLC
  • Park Towne Place Apartment Homes
  • Pinnacle Property Management Services, LLC
  • Prometheus Real Estate Group, Inc.
  • RPM Living, LLC
  • Sares Regis Group
  • Security Properties Inc.
  • The Irvine Company, LLC
  • The Sterling Apartment Homes
  • Thrive Communities Management, LLC
  • UDR, Inc.
  • WinnCompanies, LLC
  • ZRS Management, LLC

Renter/Tenant FAQs Regarding Compensation:

  1. What type of compensation can I expect if I sue and the the lawsuit is successful?
    • You can expect financial compensation, which might include refunds for overpaid rents, punitive damages, and possibly other monetary awards decided by the court.
  2. How will the compensation/settlement be calculated?
    • Compensation is typically based on the extent of overcharges experienced, the duration you were affected, and any other financial harm caused by the price fixing.
  3. When can I expect to receive compensation?
    • The timeline for receiving compensation can vary, but it usually occurs after the lawsuit is resolved and any appeals are completed, which can take several months to years.
  4. Are there any fees or costs I will be responsible for?
    • Legal fees and administrative costs might be deducted from the compensation amount, but details vary based on the agreement with the representing law firm. Almost all mass arbitration and class action law firms work on a contingency fee basis, which means that the payment of fees and costs is “contingent” upon whether they obtain any recovery on your behalf. If there is no monetary award, you will not be obligated to pay any attorneys’ fees or costs.
  5. Is the compensation taxable?
    • Compensation could be taxable; it’s advisable to consult with a tax professional to understand the specific implications.

Renter/Tenant Questions Regarding How to Sign Up:

  1. Am I eligible to join the antitrust lawsuit?
    • Eligibility typically includes being a tenant who rented a property affected by the price-fixing practices and antitrust violations during a specified period.
  2. What documents or evidence do I need to provide?
    • You might need to provide lease agreements, rent payment records, and any communication with your landlord and/or property management company related to rental rates.
  3. How do I officially join the lawsuit?
    • You can join by contacting the law firm handling the case, filling out any required forms, and submitting necessary documentation.
  4. Do I need to hire my own lawyer?
    • Generally, you do not need to hire your own lawyer if you join a class action lawsuit, as the representing firm will handle the case on behalf of all plaintiffs.
  5. What happens after I sign up?
    • After signing up, you will receive updates on the case’s progress and may need to participate in providing further information or testimony.
  6. Can I withdraw from the lawsuit if I change my mind?
    • Yes, you can usually withdraw from the lawsuit, but it’s important to understand any potential consequences or deadlines for opting out.
  7. Will my participation be confidential?
    • Participation is typically confidential, though some information might become public record during court proceedings.

Join the RealPage Antitrust Lawsuit and Claim Compensation

If you have rented an apartment or single-family or multifamily property managed by one of the defendants or another company using RealPage’s revenue management service to set rental prices anytime since 2016, you may be affected and you can complete this form to sign up for the lawsuit.

Thursday

22

August 2024

2024 Ticketmaster data breach compensation: Just how much are you eligible for if you sign up?

Written by , Posted in Consumer Law, Contract Law, Cybersecurity Law, Statutory Law

If you’ve received an email or notice from Ticketmaster about the data breach/hack that happened in 2024, you may be wondering what to do, and how much compensation you’re eligible for.

The path to receiving that compensation (and how much settlement you can get) can be taken in various legal ways.

Here’s the three options you have to sign up for the lawsuit:

  1. Class Action Lawsuit: Several law firms are investigating potential class action lawsuits against Ticketmaster and Live Nation. While class actions can be an efficient way to address widespread harm, they often result in relatively small payouts for individual plaintiffs.
  2. Individual Lawsuit: You could file an individual lawsuit against Ticketmaster, but this approach can be costly and time-consuming.
  3. Mass Arbitration: This strategy combines elements of individual representation with the collective power of group action. It is the strategy of choice for most successful law firms who have fought on behalf of their clients against the largest companies in the world and won.

Ticketmaster Data Breach Lawsuit Sign Up

If you received a letter or email notification from Ticketmaster about the data breach/hack in 2024, you can join the mass arbitration lawsuit by filling out this form.

The link above goes to the secure sign-up form for the Ticketmaster data breach case on Mason LLP’s website. Mason LLP is experienced in mass arbitration for data breach cases in the U.S. and is actively involved in the Ticketmaster breach. They have recovered over $1 billion for their clients in the past 30 years. 

Why Mass Arbitration May Result in the Largest Settlement/Compensation

Mass arbitration is gaining traction as an effective alternative to traditional class action lawsuits primarily due to increased payouts, and a shorter timeline.

If you’re wondering about how much the ticketmaster data breach compensation is in dollar amounts for each individual plaintiff, nobody can answer that for you just yet, but here’s why it might be the optimal choice for plaintiff’s:

Personalized Representation

Unlike class actions where all plaintiffs are treated as a single bulk entity, mass arbitration allows for individual representation. Law firms handling mass arbitrations file separate cases for each client, focusing on the specific details of your situation. 

This personalized approach could potentially lead to higher compensation compared to what you might receive in a class action settlement.

Potential for Higher Payouts

By avoiding the “one-size-fits-all” nature of class actions, mass arbitration may result in more substantial settlements for individuals. Your specific circumstances, such as the extent of data compromised or any resulting financial losses, can be more thoroughly considered.

Bypassing Arbitration Clauses

Many companies, including Ticketmaster, have arbitration clauses in their terms of service that prevent customers from participating in class action lawsuits. Mass arbitration turns this tactic on its head by overwhelming the company with numerous individual arbitration claims, often leading to more favorable settlement terms.

Efficient Process

While each case is handled individually, mass arbitration allows law firms to streamline the process by using similar arguments and evidence across multiple cases. This efficiency can lead to faster resolutions compared to traditional lawsuits.

How to Join the Lawsuit Against Ticketmaster/ Live Nation

If you’re one of the 560 million customers affected by this Ticketmaster data breach in 2024 and wish to seek a refund and additional compensation, follow these steps to join the mass arbitration process:

  1. Confirm Your Eligibility:
    • Check if you received an *official* email or letter notification from Ticketmaster about the data breach.
    • If you didn’t receive a notice but believe you may be affected, contact Ticketmaster directly.
  2. Gather Documentation:
    • Collect all relevant information, including:
      • Emails from Ticketmaster about the breach
      • Evidence of any fraudulent charges
      • Records of time spent addressing the breach
    • Organize these documents for easy access when needed.
  3. Sign Up
    • Sign up via this secure sign-up form for the Ticketmaster data breach case.
    • You’ll need to provide:
      • Personal information (name, address, contact details)
      • Ticketmaster account information
      • Details about how you’ve been affected by the breach
      • Any relevant documentation (e.g., breach notification emails, evidence of fraudulent charges)
  4. Review and Submit:
    • Carefully review all information before submitting.
    • Ensure you understand:
      • The law firm’s terms of representation
      • Any fees or costs involved, which are usually none: Mason LLP and most plaintiff law firms handle these cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront costs and only pay if they win your case.
      • Your rights and obligations as a plaintiff
    • If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask your law firm for clarification.
  5. Confirmation and Next Steps:
    • After submitting your information:
      • Look for a confirmation email or message from your attorney
      • Follow any additional instructions provided by the firm
      • Be prepared to provide more information or documentation if requested
  6. Stay Informed:
    • Once you’ve signed up for the class action / mass arbitration lawsuit :
      • Regularly check your email for updates from the firm
      • Visit your law firm’s website for case updates
      • Consider joining any secure online portals or groups set up for plaintiffs
    • Keep all communications for your records.

What to Expect in Terms of Compensation

While it’s difficult to predict exact compensation amounts, data breach settlements can include:

  • Reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses related to the breach
  • Compensation for time spent dealing with the breach
  • Credit monitoring services
  • Identity theft insurance

Mass arbitration settlements have the potential to be more substantial than typical class action payouts, which often amount to only a few Dollars up to a few dozen Dollars per person.

Remember, the legal process can take time, so patience is key. By following these steps and staying engaged, you’ll be well-positioned to pursue compensation for any damages resulting from the Ticketmaster data breach.

Join the Ticketmaster / Live Nation Lawsuit and Claim Compensation


If you’ve been affected by this data hack/breach, you may be entitled to join and claim compensation for the exposure of your private data and any resulting damages as a result of that. If you received a letter or email notification from Ticketmaster about the data breach, you can join the mass arbitration lawsuit by filling out this form.

Monday

19

August 2024

Question: Is it Legal to Buy Anabolic Steroids Online?

Written by , Posted in Criminal Law

Answer: No. If you are considering doing this and buying steroids online, we’d recommend against it. The stringent U.S. laws, including the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act prohibit purchasing anabolic steroids online.

However, each year tens of thousands of individuals in the US often unknowingly skirt legal boundaries in their pursuit of these anabolic vials and injectables. Internet transactions might seem convenient and discreet, but they’re often monitored.

With agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection vigilantly inspecting incoming packages, a seemingly harmless online Internet purchase of some Test or Tren can swiftly spiral into a legal nightmare (but more so if you’re a distributor buying large quantities in order to resell). Add to this the fact that many states have their own set of regulations, and the risk multiplies. Stories of intercepted packages, heavy fines, and even legal action serve as stark reminders that obtaining these steroids in the USA is a gamble that can lead to unintended consequences.

Outside of the USA? We don’t know the laws and regulations of other countries and don’t want to comment on them. Please do your own research and get legal counsel in whichever country you’re in if you plan to consume steroids and start a “cycle” as part of your strength training routine.

We can’t tell you what to do however, and if you’ve already made up your mind and want to buy a supply of steroids online at all costs, you can explore some of the gray-market variations available online and purchase them.

Read more: Are SARMs actually legal?

Laws That Govern Anabolic Steroids for Sale in the US

Controlled Substances Act (CSA): As per the CSA, anabolic steroids are branded as Schedule III controlled substances. Their potential for abuse is evident, yet they have undeniable medical uses.

FDA’s Stern Stance: The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act makes it clear: no anabolic steroids without a genuine prescription. And the drug has to be FDA-approved for its intended use. These include expensive vials that are much loved on the black market and are frequently into thighs and buttocks: Testosterone Cypionate (Depo-Testosterone), Testosterone Enanthate, Testosterone Undecanoate (Aveed, Nebido), Testosterone propionate (Testoviron) and others.

Online Transactions: Not Always a Safe Bet: The Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act of 2008 is a testament to the legal risks of online purchases. Any online pharmacy dispatching controlled substances must be DEA-registered. Failure to comply could be a very costly mistake for them.

The Dicey Dance with Customs: Importing steroids might lead them to be seized at customs. There have been many real life cases you can find on online forums and disccusion boards where individuals faced hefty fines and even imprisonment after their packages were intercepted..

The Ambiguous World of Prohormones and TREN: Prohormones, precursors to anabolic steroids, fall in a tricky legal zone. Previously, many were sold over-the-counter. However, with the Anabolic Steroid Control Act amendments, most became controlled substances. Also we’re not doctors, but we’ve heard these prohormones can be extremely hard on the liver and aren’t sustainable long-term. On the other hand TREN (Trenbolone), often dubbed a “gray-area substance,” is a powerful anabolic steroid. While it’s intended for livestock, its non-medical use in humans is prohibited. The word on the street these days is that human-grade testosterone is much better and safer over the long term, and finding a TRT doctor is very easy if you put in the effort.

hypodermic needle containing anabolic steroids on brown granite countertop kitchen
Federal vs. State Tug of War: The Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act forms the baseline. However, states like California and New York aren’t content with just that, adding their layer of legal stringency.

Distribution vs. Personal Consumption: Under 21 U.S.C. § 841, the line is clear. Sell or distribute steroids without authorization, and you’re in for trouble. Personal possession might seem less severe, but it’s still a legal quagmire.

Summary

In summary, while the allure of anabolic steroids for performance enhancement might be tempting, the potential legal ramifications in the U.S. are significant. If you’re researching “steroids for sale” or “buy steroids” on where or how to buy, then the clear directive for steroids is this: acquire only with a valid prescription, and ensure that online sources are authorized by the FDA. Venturing into the gray zones of TREN or prohormones? Tread with caution. Outside of the USA? Do your own research and get legal counsel in whichever country you’re in and plan to consume these steroids.

[CONTACT THE ATTORNEY WHO ANSWERED THIS QUESTION]

Sunday

4

August 2024

Question: Are SARMs Legal?

Written by , Posted in Criminal Law

Answer: Yes, SARMs are legal to sell and purchase in the U.S. as “research chemicals.” SARMs are not covered by the Controlled Substances Act or the Anabolic Steroids Control Act of 1990.

Additionally, SARMs aren’t illegal compounds–so having them in your possession is not a crime, and drug tests used in criminal cases such as drunk driving will not detect them. However, SARMs (also known as Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) are not legal to be sold for human consumption or to be sold as a supplement (for example: as a bodybuilding supplement). In short, enforcement of SARMs is typically on the seller side and targets retailers who are promoting it as a supplement for human use.

The decision to use SARMs is a personal one that should be made after carefully considering the potential legal and health risks.

Further Details

In most countries, including the United States, SARMs are legal but are considered unapproved drugs and are illegal to sell, purchase, or possess for human use without a valid prescription or proper authorization from regulatory agencies such as the FDA. Of course there is no prescription available for SARMs or any doctor willing to prescribe one, so that point is moot. SARMs can be legally purchased online as “research chemicals,” and if you don’t ingest the compound then they aren’t illegal which puts it in a bit of a legal gray area.

In 2018, the U.S. Senate introduced the SARMs Control Act (S.2742), which aimed to amend the Controlled Substances Act to include SARMs as Schedule III controlled substances. The bill sought to criminalize the possession and distribution of SARMs without a valid prescription. But importantly, the SARMs Control Act did not become law! But it demonstrates the growing concern among lawmakers about the potential risks associated with these substances and the need for stricter regulation (so keep your eye on the legality going forward).

Anabolic steroids are of course illegal in the US, and so are most prohormones which were reclassified as Schedule III drugs in 2005. SARMs however have no such legal language against them, or any legal precedent either.

As such, many people still purchase and use SARMs for bodybuilding and performance enhancement purposes. The risk of getting caught and facing legal consequences is relatively low for individual users, as enforcement efforts primarily target suppliers and distributors rather than consumers.

Read our other articles on these similar topics people often ask us:

Current (July 2024) legal status of SARMs in the United States

In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved SARMs for human use, classifying them as “unapproved drugs” and warns against side effects. The FDA has taken a firm stance against companies selling SARMs as dietary supplements, issuing warning letters to those making false claims about their products’ safety and efficacy. “The FDA is concerned about the potential health risks posed by these products,” states an agency spokesperson, “and we will continue to take action against companies that illegally market them.” So if you are selling SARMs online, you should be very careful on the verbiage and copywriting you use on your website. We suggest speaking with a qualified attorney in your state.

Despite the FDA’s position, SARMs are not currently listed under the Controlled Substances Act, which regulates drugs based on their potential for abuse and medical use. However, this could change in the future as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) continues to monitor the situation. “The legal status of SARMs is a moving target,” explains Dr. Michael Sachs a professor of law specializing in drug policy. “As more research emerges and public awareness grows, we may see a shift in how these substances are regulated.”

What About Prohormones vs SARMs?

From our legal perspective perspective, the main difference between SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) and prohormones is that while SARMs are currently unapproved drugs and are illegal to sell or distribute for human consumption, prohormones have been explicitly banned and classified as controlled substances in many countries. In the United States, the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2004 amended the Controlled Substances Act to include prohormones, making them Schedule III controlled substances.

Legal Status of SARMs in Other Countries

  • Canada: In Canada, SARMs are considered “experimental drugs” and are illegal to sell without a prescription. Health Canada has taken enforcement actions against companies selling SARMs, including seizing products and issuing public warnings.
  • United Kingdom: In the UK, SARMs are classified as “medicinal products” and cannot be sold without a license from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). The MHRA has prosecuted individuals and companies for illegally selling SARMs, resulting in fines and prison sentences.
  • Australia: Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) prohibits the sale, supply, or advertising of SARMs without a prescription. The TGA has taken action against several companies for illegally importing and distributing SARMs, leading to significant fines.

Legal Consequences/Penalties of Illegal SARMs Use and Distribution

In the U.S., possessing or distributing unapproved drugs can result in criminal charges, fines, and even imprisonment. While prosecutions specifically targeting SARMs users are relatively rare, the risk is still there. It’s essential to understand the potential legal ramifications before considering using these substances.

Businesses that sell SARMs illegally (by promoting them for bodybuilding or strength training) face even greater risks, including hefty fines, product seizures, and reputational damage. In recent years, several companies have been the target of legal action by the FDA and other regulatory agencies worldwide. “The message is clear,” states an FDA representative, “if you’re selling SARMs without proper approval, you’re putting your business and your customers at risk.”

Other Common Questions

Is it legal to travel with SARMs?

In most countries, including the United States, it is legal. SARMs are considered unapproved drugs or controlled substances in many jurisdictions, but they’re not a “scheduled drug” or a toxic or poisonous substance that would be dangerous to travel with, so yes it’s legal. Also a drug sniffing dog or screening swab at the airport is not calibrated to detect these substances.

SARMs vs Steroids Legality

While both SARMs and steroids both target androgen receptors, they are distinct substances.. SARMs are designed to selectively target specific tissues, such as muscle and bone, while minimizing side effects on other organs. In contrast, steroids have a more widespread effect on the body. Most countries legally categories SARMs much differently than steroids and under different legal frameworks.

Is RAD-140 illegal?

RAD-140, also known as Testolone, is a SARM that is not approved for human use by the FDA or other major regulatory agencies. As such, it is illegal to sell or market RAD-140 for human consumption in most countries, including the United States. Use of RAD-140 without a prescription may also be illegal, depending on the jurisdiction. Simply possessing RAD-140 however for “research purposes” is legal in the US by all indications.

Is MK-677 illegal?

MK-677, or Ibutamoren, is not a SARM but rather a growth hormone secretagogue. Like SARMs, MK-677 is not approved for human use by the FDA or other major regulatory agencies. That doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t buy it or use it in secret however, as it’s more of a CYA deal by the manufacturers and retailers. Selling, distributing, or possessing MK-677 not for human use is legal in the US and most countries

Can you fail a drug test for SARMs?

Likely no. While SARMs are not specifically targeted in most standard drug tests, some advanced testing methods can detect their presence (mostly in competitive sports and anti-doping tests). However some SARMs products may be contaminated with other substances that are detectable in drug tests. Athletes subject to anti-doping regulations should be especially cautious, as SARMs are prohibited by most sports organizations.

Can you use SARMs in the U.S. military?

The use of SARMs is prohibited in the U.S. military and many other armed forces worldwide. The Department of Defense considers SARMs to be “high risk” substances that can potentially compromise the health and readiness of service members. Military personnel found using SARMs may face disciplinary action, including court-martial, under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The U.S. military doesn’t specifically test for SARMs in urine analysis or other drug tests, however if you’re caught with them in your possession they will want to know what it is and will likely find out!!

Re-cap

The legal status of SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) is complex and varies by country. In the United States, SARMs are considered unapproved drugs and are illegal to sell or distribute for human consumption without proper authorization, although they can be purchased legally as “research chemicals” if not ingested. The legal landscape is evolving, with lawmakers expressing concerns about potential risks and the need for stricter regulation. Despite this, many people still use SARMs for bodybuilding and performance enhancement. The decision to use SARMs should be made after carefully considering the potential legal and health risks, and staying informed about the evolving legal landscape surrounding these substances.

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