Cannabis Possession Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in New Kent 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. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for cannabis charges. Contact a cannabis possession lawyer New Kent County at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical prescription. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. 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 of one pound or more is a Class 4 felony, with penalties of 2 to 10 years. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute, which carries more severe penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the New Kent County Combined Courts website.
Defending a Cannabis Charge in New Kent County
An effective defense starts with a detailed review of the arrest. In New Kent County, prosecutors must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the marijuana. A cannabis arrest lawyer New Kent County will examine the legality of the stop, the search and seizure, and the chain of custody of the evidence. Common defenses include challenging the lack of probable cause for the stop, improper search procedures, or mistaken identity. The local procedural fact is that first-time offenders may be eligible for a first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Contact a cannabis possession lawyer New Kent County immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain the police report, evidence, and discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Your lawyer will file any necessary pre-trial motions to challenge the evidence or procedural errors.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a first-offender program.
- If no favorable plea is possible, prepare for and proceed to a bench trial in General District Court.
Potential Penalties for Marijuana Possession
In New Kent County, simple marijuana possession (under one ounce) is a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a driver’s license suspension of six months.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Criminal record, possible drug education |
| Possession >1 oz, <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of certain rights |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | 6-month suspension | Felony record, severe long-term impacts |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Cannabis Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing drug charges. Our team understands the local court procedures and works diligently to protect your rights and future.
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
Our firm has a strong track record in criminal defense. In New Kent County, we have documented results including dismissals and charge reductions. For instance, our team has successfully resolved cases where charges were dismissed after challenging the legality of a traffic stop or the scope of a search. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Kent County Cannabis Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We are a cannabis possession lawyer near New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor marijuana charge in New Kent County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor for simple possession (one ounce or less) in New Kent County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension.
Can a first-time marijuana possession charge be dismissed in New Kent County?
It depends. First-time offenders are often eligible for a first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. Successful completion of terms like community service and drug education can lead to dismissal. A cannabis arrest lawyer New Kent County can petition the court for this disposition.
Will I go to jail for a small amount of marijuana in New Kent County?
Not necessarily. For a first-time simple possession charge, jail time is often avoided through a first-offender program or a plea to a lesser offense. However, the law allows for up to 12 months in jail, so having a lawyer is critical.
How does a marijuana conviction affect my driver’s license in Virginia?
Virginia law mandates a six-month driver’s license suspension for any drug conviction, including misdemeanor marijuana possession. A restricted license for work may be available. This is an administrative penalty separate from any court fines or jail time.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in New Kent County?
Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a cannabis possession lawyer New Kent County as soon as possible to begin building your defense and protecting your rights.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services for DUI defense in New Kent County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.