Simple Possession in Albemarle County carries up to 12 months in jail under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results in Albemarle County. A Simple Possession lawyer Albemarle County can help you pursue a first-offender deferred disposition.
Simple Possession Lawyer Albemarle County — What Is Your Best Defense?
Under Virginia law, simple possession of a controlled substance is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. This statute prohibits knowingly or intentionally possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. The law covers drugs such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription medications obtained illegally. A Simple Possession lawyer Albemarle County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can explain how this statute applies to your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For more information on Virginia drug laws, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Albemarle County General District Court website.
Albemarle County General District Court handles all simple possession misdemeanor trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. First-offender programs are available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 — successful completion results in dismissal.
- Arrest and initial appearance before the magistrate at the Albemarle County courthouse.
- Bond hearing — personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment in General District Court — enter a plea.
- Discovery phase — review evidence including lab reports and police reports.
- Pre-trial motions and negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or plea hearing — pursue dismissal through first-offender program if eligible.
In Albemarle County, simple possession of a controlled substance carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month license suspension | Permanent criminal record; possible deferred disposition |
| Simple Possession (Subsequent) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Up to 3-year license suspension | Mandatory minimum fine; no deferred disposition |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our drug possession defense lawyer Albemarle County team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds cases. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), demonstrating the firm’s deep understanding of Virginia law.
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
In Albemarle County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Albemarle County courts (350 Park Street). The location is accessible via I-64, Route 29, Route 250, and Route 20.
Looking for a Simple Possession lawyer near Albemarle County? We serve the Charlottesville area, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Can simple possession charges be dismissed in Albemarle County?
Yes. Virginia’s first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allows dismissal upon successful completion of probation and drug treatment. Eligibility depends on having no prior drug convictions.
What is the difference between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute?
Simple possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession with intent to distribute is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-248, carrying 5-40 years in prison. The distinction depends on quantity, packaging, and other evidence.
How long does a simple possession case take in Albemarle County?
A misdemeanor simple possession case typically resolves in 4-8 weeks from arraignment in Albemarle County General District Court. Cases involving lab testing may take longer.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a simple possession conviction?
Yes. Virginia law requires a 6-month license suspension for a first simple possession conviction. A subsequent conviction carries up to a 3-year suspension. A Simple Possession lawyer Albemarle County can help minimize these consequences.
Can I get a public defender for a simple possession charge in Albemarle County?
Yes. If you qualify based on income, the court will appoint a public defender. The court-appointed attorney fee is $120 for a misdemeanor. A personal use defense lawyer Albemarle County can also be retained privately.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.