Marijuana Possession Lawyer Dinwiddie County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Dinwiddie County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense. A marijuana possession lawyer Dinwiddie County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in the locality. We provide 24/7 phone consultations to protect your rights and future.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical prescription. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of up to one ounce by a person 21 or older is a civil violation with a $25 fine. However, possession of more than one ounce, or any amount by a person under 21, remains a criminal offense. For adults, possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of one pound or more is a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s drug laws, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website. Court information for Dinwiddie County can be found on the Dinwiddie County Courts page.
Handling a Marijuana Charge in Dinwiddie County
If you are arrested for marijuana possession in Dinwiddie County, your case will begin at the Dinwiddie County General District Court. Prosecutors here may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for eligible defendants, which can lead to dismissal upon completion. An experienced cannabis charge defense lawyer Dinwiddie County can evaluate the legality of the search and seizure that led to your arrest, a common defense strategy.
- Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer Dinwiddie County immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will request discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney to review the evidence.
- Defenses may challenge the stop, search, or chain of custody of the alleged marijuana.
- Your lawyer will negotiate for a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a first-offender program.
- If no favorable plea is reached, your attorney will prepare for a bench trial in General District Court.
- You have the right to appeal a guilty finding to Dinwiddie County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Dinwiddie County
In Dinwiddie County, marijuana possession of more than one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, though first-offense penalties are typically lower.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (Adult 21+) | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record, possible drug education |
| Possession 1 lb or more | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500* | Possible suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession (Under 21) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record, mandatory drug program |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*For a Class 5 felony, the jury or judge can alternatively impose up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
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 across Virginia.
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 Dinwiddie County
Our firm has a documented history of positive results in Dinwiddie County. We have achieved 4 documented results in the locality, including dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions. For instance, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris, has successfully negotiated the amendment of more serious distribution charges down to simple possession in other Virginia jurisdictions, significantly reducing potential penalties.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Marijuana Possession Lawyer Near Dinwiddie County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Dinwiddie County courts (Dinwiddie Courthouse), accessible via I-85, Route 1, and Route 460. We are your local marijuana possession lawyer near Dinwiddie, also serving the communities of McKenney.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
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.
Marijuana Possession Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for a first-time marijuana possession charge in Dinwiddie County?
It depends. For a first offense of possessing more than one ounce, the court may impose up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine, but often opts for a suspended sentence, probation, and a drug education program. An attorney can argue for the most lenient outcome.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Expungement is available if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or the prosecutor entered a nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Dinwiddie County can advise if you qualify.
Should I hire a lawyer for a simple marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and educational opportunities. A marijuana arrest lawyer Dinwiddie County can work to get the charge dismissed, reduced, or handled through a diversion program to avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between a civil violation and a misdemeanor for marijuana in VA?
A civil violation for possession of one ounce or less by an adult carries only a $25 fine and no jail time or criminal record. A misdemeanor for possession over one ounce is a criminal charge that can result in jail time, a larger fine, and a permanent criminal record.
What defenses are available against a marijuana possession charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the traffic stop or detainment, arguing the search was conducted without probable cause or a warrant, questioning the chain of custody of the evidence, or asserting the substance was not in your actual or constructive possession.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Dinwiddie County and criminal defense across Virginia. For charges in nearby areas, see our page for criminal defense in Chesterfield County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.