Simple Possession Lawyer in Clarke County, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple possession of a controlled substance in Clarke County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 29 total documented case results in Clarke County across all practice areas.
Virginia Law on Simple Possession
Simple possession of a controlled substance is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-250. It is the knowing or intentional possession of a controlled substance without a valid prescription. The severity of the charge depends on the substance’s classification in Schedules I through VI. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Clarke County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found at the Clarke County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Simple Possession Charge
In Clarke County, simple possession cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Clarke County General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials. For first-time offenders, a program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available, where successful completion can lead to dismissal.
- You will be issued a summons or arrested, followed by an initial appearance before a magistrate.
- Your arraignment in Clarke County General District Court is where you enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Your criminal attorney will file pre-trial motions, negotiate with the prosecutor, and prepare for trial.
- If no plea agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to the Clarke County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Simple Possession in Clarke County
In Clarke County, simple possession of a controlled substance is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (Schedule I/II) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension for 6 months | Permanent criminal record, possible drug education program |
| Simple Possession (Schedule III-VI) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension for 6 months | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Clarke County Courts
Founded in 1997, 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. In Clarke County, we have 29 total documented case results across all practice areas. Our defense lawyer team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our approach to criminal charges defense in Clarke County is thorough and proactive. While specific outcomes depend on case details, our documented results in the locality demonstrate our commitment to client advocacy. We examine every aspect of the arrest, from the legality of the stop to the handling of evidence, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Clarke County Residents
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges in Clarke County courts. We are a trusted Simple Possession Lawyer Clarke Virginia near Berryville and Boyce. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804) 201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Clarke County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Clarke 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 Clarke County General District Court (104 North Church Street, Berryville, VA 22611). 29 total documented case results across all practice areas (72% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Clarke County, Virginia?
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 Clarke County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 29 total documented case results across all practice areas (72% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Clarke County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Clarke County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Clarke County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Clarke County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Clarke County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Clarke County General District Court (104 North Church Street, Berryville, VA 22611). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 29 total documented case results across all practice areas (72% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Clarke County?
Clarke County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Clarke 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. Clarke County General District Court (104 North Church Street, Berryville, VA 22611) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services in Clarke County
If you are facing other charges, our firm provides full representation. You may need a DUI lawyer in Clarke County or a family law attorney in Clarke County. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also represent clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For the full picture beyond Clarke County, our page on simple possession cases in Virginia covers the process end to end.