Simple Possession Lawyer Prince George Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple possession of a controlled substance in Prince George County is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-250, punishable by 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 a strong defense for these charges in Prince George County General District Court.
Virginia Law on Drug Possession
Simple possession of a controlled substance is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-250. This statute makes it unlawful for any person to possess a controlled substance unless it was obtained directly from, or pursuant to, a valid prescription or order of a practitioner. The law covers all Schedule I-VI substances, from marijuana to prescription medications possessed without authorization. The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend on the specific substance and the amount possessed.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found at the Prince George County General District Court website.
Handling a Simple Possession Case in Prince George County
Prince George County General District Court handles all misdemeanor simple possession trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available; successful completion can result in dismissal of the charge. An experienced criminal attorney will evaluate all options from the start.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact a defense lawyer immediately after arrest or receiving a summons. We review the charging documents and police report.
- Investigation & Evidence Analysis: We examine the circumstances of the stop, search, and arrest to identify constitutional violations or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Strategy Development: Based on the evidence, we develop a defense strategy, which may involve filing motions to suppress evidence, negotiating for a reduction, or preparing for trial.
- Court Appearances & Resolution: We represent you at all hearings in Prince George County General District Court, advocating for the best possible outcome, which could be dismissal, participation in a first-offender program, or a favorable plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Simple Possession in Virginia
In Prince George County, simple possession of a controlled substance is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500, plus a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (Marijuana, 1st offense under 1 oz) | Civil Violation | None | Up to $25 | No suspension | No criminal record |
| Simple Possession (Schedule I/II, e.g., cocaine, heroin) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Simple Possession (Schedule III-VI, e.g., steroids, prescription drugs) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Criminal record, professional licensing issues |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
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 track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a drug possession charge and the specific dynamics of Prince George County courts.
Case Results for Drug Charges
Our firm has a documented record of defending against criminal charges. For Prince George County, we have 1 documented result. On a firm-wide basis across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, we have achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts. Our secondary attorney for complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which aids in dissecting complex evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Simple Possession Lawyer Near Prince George County, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive). We are accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. We provide legal representation to individuals in Prince George and the Hopewell area.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (804) 977-0784
By appointment only.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince George 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, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on suspended. Cases are heard at Prince George County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince George 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 Prince George County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Prince George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Prince George County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Prince George County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Prince George County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A criminal court lawyer can protect your rights and work toward a favorable resolution.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Prince George County?
Prince George County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince George 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.
Related Legal Information
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, consider our Henrico County criminal defense lawyer or Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer pages. For other legal needs in Prince George County, we also assist with DUI/DWI defense and reckless driving tickets.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.