Simple Possession Lawyer Chesapeake — What Are Your Options?
In Chesapeake, simple possession of a controlled substance under Va. Code § 18.2-250 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Simple Possession lawyer Chesapeake from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result: 1 dismissed/not guilty. Contact us 24/7.
What Is Simple Possession Under Virginia Law?
Simple possession means knowingly possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. Under Va. Code § 18.2-250, this includes Schedule I, II, III, IV, and V drugs. The prosecution must prove you intentionally had the substance and knew it was illegal. A Simple Possession lawyer Chesapeake can challenge whether police had reasonable suspicion for a search. First-offense marijuana possession under one ounce is a civil violation, not a crime. However, other drugs like cocaine or heroin remain criminal offenses. The statute covers actual possession (on your person) and constructive possession (in your control, like a car or home).
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-250 — Possession of controlled substances (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Chesapeake General District Court — Official Court Website
How Simple Possession Cases Proceed in Chesapeake
In Chesapeake General District Court, prosecutors often file simple possession as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The court at 307 Albemarle Drive handles arraignments, pretrials, and trials. A drug possession defense lawyer Chesapeake can negotiate a first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which leads to dismissal upon completion.
- Step 1: Arrest and booking at Chesapeake City Jail.
- Step 2: Initial appearance before a magistrate for bond setting.
- Step 3: Arraignment at Chesapeake General District Court.
- Step 4: Pretrial conference with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Step 5: Trial or plea negotiation for first-offender program.
- Step 6: Disposition — dismissal, conviction, or deferred finding.
In Chesapeake, 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 | Criminal record, employment barriers |
| Simple Possession (Schedule III/IV) | Class 2 Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | 6-month license suspension | Criminal record, employment barriers |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Simple Possession Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our firm has handled 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep legislative knowledge. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds cases in Chesapeake. A personal use defense lawyer Chesapeake from our firm can evaluate your case and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, former prosecutor and founder, who oversees all criminal defense matters.
Case Results in Chesapeake
In Chesapeake, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result: 1 dismissed/not guilty — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, we have 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Chesapeake Location
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, and I-664. We serve Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
Looking for a Simple Possession lawyer near Chesapeake? We are your local option.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Possession in Chesapeake
Can I get a first-offender program for simple possession in Chesapeake?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, first-time offenders may qualify for a deferred disposition. Successful completion leads to dismissal.
What is the penalty for simple possession in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine.
Can simple possession be expunged in Chesapeake?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi are eligible for expungement. First-offender program completions also qualify.
Do I need a Simple Possession lawyer Chesapeake for a first offense?
Yes. Even a first offense creates a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can negotiate first-offender diversion to avoid conviction.
How long does a simple possession case take in Chesapeake?
It depends. Misdemeanor trials in General District Court typically resolve in 4-8 weeks from arraignment. First-offender programs may take 6-12 months.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.