Marijuana 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. A marijuana 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 classifies simple possession of marijuana (one ounce or less) as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, outlines the penalties and potential for a first-offender disposition. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 5 felony. The law provides specific defenses and procedural options that a skilled marijuana arrest lawyer Chesterfield County can use to protect your rights and future.
- Secure legal representation immediately after a marijuana arrest.
- Your attorney will review the police report and evidence for constitutional violations.
- File pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable disposition, such as a first-offender program or reduction.
- Prepare for trial if a satisfactory plea cannot be reached.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine, with more severe penalties for larger amounts.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record, employment issues |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (varies by weight) | 5-40 years | Up to $500,000 | Mandatory suspension | Severe felony penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Chesterfield County Marijuana Defense Team
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+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local procedures at the Chesterfield County General District Court and are committed to providing a strong, case-specific defense for every client.
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 & Client Advocacy
Our team has a documented history of achieving positive results. In previous marijuana-related cases in Virginia, we have successfully negotiated amendments from distribution charges to simple possession and secured dismissals through first-offender programs. For instance, in Fairfax County, we amended a distribution/PWI charge to simple possession of marijuana. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Contact Our Chesterfield County Marijuana Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesterfield County, including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 10, and Route 360 (Hull Street).
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.
Marijuana Possession Defense FAQs in Chesterfield County
What are the penalties for marijuana possession in Chesterfield County, VA?
Possession of one ounce or less is a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 5 felony. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County can explain all potential consequences and defense options specific to your case.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged in Chesterfield County?
It depends. Dismissals, acquittals, and nolle prosequi are generally eligible for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. Successful completion of a first-offender program may lead to dismissal, which could then make you eligible for expungement.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor can result in jail time, a fine, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing. A marijuana arrest lawyer Chesterfield County can seek a first-offender disposition to avoid a conviction or fight the charge outright if the evidence is weak.
What is a first-offender program for marijuana in Virginia?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-251, eligible first-time offenders may be placed on probation. Upon successful completion of terms like community service and drug education, the charge is dismissed. This avoids a formal conviction but requires a guilty plea upfront.
Where are marijuana possession cases heard in Chesterfield County?
Misdemeanor marijuana possession cases are heard at the Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road). Felony possession cases begin there for a preliminary hearing before potentially moving to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for trial.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI defense in Chesterfield County and criminal defense in Henrico County. For more information on Virginia criminal law, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult with an attorney for the most current legal guidance.