Cannabis Possession Lawyer Chesterfield County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Chesterfield County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense. A cannabis possession lawyer Chesterfield County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the evidence and seek dismissal or a first-offender program.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute. Simple possession of marijuana (one ounce or less) is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of more than one ounce creates a presumption of intent to distribute, a more serious felony charge. A cannabis arrest lawyer Chesterfield County can analyze the circumstances of your stop and search to protect your rights.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Chesterfield County is available at the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Chesterfield County
Prosecutors in Chesterfield County routinely offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 18.2-251 for eligible defendants. Successfully completing the program results in dismissal of the charge. A skilled marijuana charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County can negotiate for this outcome or challenge the legality of the traffic stop, the search of your person or vehicle, and the chain of custody of the alleged substance.
- Consult with a cannabis possession lawyer Chesterfield County immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will review the police report, challenge any illegal search or seizure, and request discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Based on the evidence, your lawyer will negotiate for a dismissal, first-offender program, or reduced charge.
- If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare for and represent you at trial in GDC.
Potential Penalties for Marijuana Offenses
In Chesterfield County, simple marijuana possession carries up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense, with increased penalties for subsequent convictions.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (1st) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (2nd+) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Same as above, potential jail time |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 5 Felony (presumption of distribution) | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of voting/firearm rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local Chesterfield County court procedures and prosecution strategies.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Documented Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented criminal case results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate). For example, our team secured a dismissal for a client charged with “Purchase/Possess Alcohol” in Chesterfield General District Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our secondary attorney on complex cases, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor and firm founder with multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Contact Our Chesterfield County Cannabis Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location is centrally located to serve clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). We are your local cannabis possession lawyer Chesterfield County near Midlothian, Chester, and Colonial Heights. Serving the communities of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
No, simple possession of one ounce or less is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, possession of more than one ounce creates a legal presumption of intent to distribute, which is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-248.1.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged in Chesterfield County?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for charges that resulted in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi (Va. Code § 19.2-392.2). A first-offender dismissal may also be eligible. A cannabis arrest lawyer Chesterfield County can file the petition in Chesterfield County Circuit Court if you qualify.
Will I go to jail for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
Not necessarily. For a first offense, jail time is often avoidable. Prosecutors frequently offer first-offender programs requiring community service and drug education. An experienced marijuana charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County can negotiate for this alternative disposition.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple possession ticket?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record affecting employment, housing, and professional licenses. A cannabis possession lawyer Chesterfield County can seek to have the charge dismissed or reduced, protecting your future.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have consulted with a cannabis arrest lawyer Chesterfield County. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, explore our Chesterfield County DUI Lawyer services.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.