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 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County. A cannabis possession lawyer Chesterfield County can challenge the legality of the search, the chain of custody of evidence, or seek a first-offender dismissal.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law criminalizes the possession of marijuana. Simple possession of up to one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 5 felony, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison. Possession with intent to distribute carries even more severe penalties. The specific charge and potential consequences depend on the amount and circumstances.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Marijuana Charges
Marijuana possession cases in Chesterfield County begin at the General District Court at 9500 Courthouse Road. Prosecutors here may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for eligible defendants, which can lead to dismissal upon completion of terms. A cannabis arrest lawyer Chesterfield County can handle this process from arraignment to potential trial.
- Attend your arraignment and enter a plea of not guilty to preserve all legal options.
- Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence if the search or seizure was unlawful.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, diversion program, or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial in General District Court, with the right to appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, simple marijuana possession carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while possession of over an ounce is a felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record, employment issues |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (varies) | 1-40 years based on amount | Varies | Suspension | Severe felony penalties |
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 your case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we pursue every available defense strategy. We have a documented record of achieving dismissals and reductions for clients facing drug charges.
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
Case Results in Chesterfield County
Our firm has documented results in Chesterfield County, including cases where charges were dismissed or reduced. For example, we secured a dismissal for a client charged with profane language over a public airway and another for underage alcohol possession. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 360. We provide legal representation to residents of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
FAQs: Marijuana Charges in Chesterfield County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Chesterfield County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesterfield County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesterfield County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Chesterfield County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesterfield County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact a cannabis possession lawyer Chesterfield County for a consultation.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesterfield County?
Chesterfield County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Chesterfield County DUI Lawyer services.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal guidance regarding marijuana charges.