Simple Possession Lawyer Greene County — What Is Your Best Defense?
In Greene County, simple possession of a controlled substance 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 1 documented result in Greene County: 1 dismissed/not guilty. A Simple Possession lawyer Greene County can challenge the search and evidence.
Statutory Definition of Simple Possession in Greene County
Under Virginia law, simple possession is defined as knowingly or intentionally possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250, which makes it unlawful to possess any controlled substance classified in Schedules I through VI. This charge is distinct from possession with intent to distribute (PWID), which carries felony penalties. A Simple Possession lawyer Greene County understands the specific elements the prosecution must prove: knowledge, possession (actual or constructive), and the substance being a controlled substance. The statute applies to drugs such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription medications without a prescription.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly)
External Legal References
- Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly) — The primary statute for simple possession.
- Greene County General District Court — Official court website for Greene County.
Insider Procedural Edge: Greene County General District Court
In Greene County General District Court, prosecutors often rely on evidence obtained during traffic stops on Route 29 or Route 33. A Simple Possession lawyer Greene County can challenge the legality of the stop and the search.
- Step 1: Initial Appearance — You appear before the magistrate at Greene County General District Court (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville, VA 22973). Bond is set.
- Step 2: Arraignment — You enter a plea. A not guilty plea triggers a trial date within 4-8 weeks.
- Step 3: Discovery — Your attorney requests police reports, body camera footage, and lab results from the prosecution.
- Step 4: Motion to Suppress — If the search was illegal, your attorney files a motion to suppress the evidence.
- Step 5: Trial or Plea — The case proceeds to trial in GDC or you negotiate a plea agreement.
- Step 6: Sentencing — If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence. A first-offender disposition may result in dismissal.
Penalty Table for Simple Possession in Greene County
In Greene County, simple possession of a controlled substance carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (Schedule I/II) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month license suspension (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Criminal record; possible probation; drug testing |
| Simple Possession (Schedule III/IV) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month license suspension | Criminal record; possible probation |
| Simple Possession (Marijuana — first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month license suspension | Deferred disposition possible under § 19.2-303.2 |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case Results in Greene County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Greene County: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Location Serving Greene County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Greene County courts (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville, VA 22973), accessible via Route 29 and Route 33.
Looking for a drug possession defense lawyer Greene County or a personal use defense lawyer Greene County? We serve Stanardsville, Ruckersville, and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Possession in Greene County
Can a simple possession charge be dismissed in Greene County?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, first-time offenders may qualify for a deferred disposition. Successful completion of probation results in dismissal of the charge.
What is the penalty for simple possession in Greene County?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A 6-month driver’s license suspension also applies under Va. Code § 46.2-301.
How long does a simple possession case take in Greene County?
A GDC misdemeanor trial typically occurs 4-8 weeks from arraignment. More complex cases involving motions may take 3-6 months.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple possession charge in Greene County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A lawyer can challenge the search and negotiate a first-offender disposition.
Can simple possession be expunged in Greene County?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi are eligible for expungement. Convictions generally cannot be expunged.
Related Resources
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.