In Arlington 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. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County. A Simple Possession lawyer Arlington County can help protect your record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Under Virginia law, simple possession means knowingly or intentionally possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. This includes drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and certain prescription medications. The prosecution must prove you knew the substance was present and illegal. A drug possession defense lawyer Arlington County examines whether police had lawful grounds for the search that led to the discovery of the substance.
For more information, review the Virginia Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly) and the Arlington County General District Court website.
In Arlington County General District Court, prosecutors often file simple possession as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd handles these cases. A personal use defense lawyer Arlington County can negotiate for a first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which leads to dismissal upon completion.
- Step 1: Contact a Simple Possession lawyer Arlington County immediately after arrest.
- Step 2: Request a copy of the police report and search warrant affidavit.
- Step 3: File a motion to suppress if the search was illegal.
- Step 4: Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for first-offender diversion.
- Step 5: Complete all court-ordered conditions for dismissal.
- Step 6: File for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 after dismissal.
In Arlington 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 (Schedule I/II) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month license suspension | Permanent criminal record; possible probation |
| Simple Possession (Schedule III/IV/V) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month license suspension | Permanent criminal record; possible probation |
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 firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. Our team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement officers who understand how the Arlington County court system operates.
Our team also includes Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, and Matthew Greene, who has 30+ years of experience and a 14-year contract with CPS in Alexandria.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed or not guilty, 10 reduced or amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Arlington location is near the Arlington County courts at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, accessible via I-395 and Route 50. We serve Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Looking for a Simple Possession lawyer near Arlington? We are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for simple possession in Arlington County, Virginia?
Yes, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Cases are heard at Arlington County General District Court.
Can simple possession charges be expunged in Arlington County?
Yes, Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
How does bail work for a simple possession charge in Arlington County?
It depends. A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies.
Do I need a Simple Possession lawyer Arlington County?
Yes, even a misdemeanor creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A lawyer can negotiate for first-offender diversion and dismissal.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for simple possession in Arlington County?
Arlington County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials. Arlington County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of February 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
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