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, 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. has documented results defending cannabis charges in Dinwiddie County. Contact a marijuana possession lawyer Dinwiddie 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 specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Simple 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, though a jury can reduce the penalty to a misdemeanor. Possession with intent to distribute is a more serious felony charge.
Last verified: April 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Dinwiddie County can be found at the Dinwiddie County Courts website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Dinwiddie County
Prosecutors in Dinwiddie County General District Court handle these cases. A strong defense often challenges the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the marijuana. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches. If police lacked probable cause or a valid warrant, the evidence may be suppressed, skilled to a dismissal.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the charge.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or alternative disposition.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Marijuana Possession
In Dinwiddie County, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible DMV points | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or misdemeanor) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (varies by weight) | 1-40 years | Varies | N/A | Mandatory minimums possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Drug Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how these cases are built and challenged. We have handled numerous drug possession cases across Virginia, including in Dinwiddie County.
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 documented record of results in criminal cases. In Dinwiddie County, we have achieved favorable outcomes for clients. For example, our team has successfully negotiated reductions from felony distribution charges to simple possession. 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 multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Marijuana Possession Lawyer Near Dinwiddie County
Our Richmond location serves clients in Dinwiddie County and is accessible via I-85, Route 1, and Route 460. We are a local marijuana arrest lawyer Dinwiddie County residents can consult. We serve the communities of Dinwiddie and McKenney.
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 in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Dinwiddie 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).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Dinwiddie 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 Dinwiddie County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent record. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Dinwiddie County can challenge the evidence, seek alternative programs, or negotiate a reduction. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Dinwiddie County?
Dinwiddie County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Dinwiddie 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.
How does bail work in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Dinwiddie County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County and Colonial Heights. If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI cases in Dinwiddie County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult a marijuana possession lawyer Dinwiddie County for current legal advice.