In Fairfax 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. A Simple Possession lawyer Fairfax County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help. We have 501 documented results in Fairfax County courts.
What Is Simple Possession in Fairfax County?
Simple possession under Va. Code § 18.2-250 prohibits knowingly possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. This includes marijuana (up to one ounce is decriminalized but not legal), cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription drugs without a prescription. The statute covers actual possession (on your person) and constructive possession (in your control, such as in a car or home). A drug possession defense lawyer Fairfax County can evaluate whether the evidence supports a possession charge.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law defines simple possession at Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly). Cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court (official court website).
How Fairfax County Handles Simple Possession Cases
Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor simple possession trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may allow dismissal upon successful completion of terms.
- Arrest or summons issued — you receive a court date.
- First appearance at Fairfax County GDC (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210).
- Arraignment — you enter a plea. Your Simple Possession lawyer Fairfax County can negotiate.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery — your attorney reviews evidence.
- Trial or plea — if evidence is weak, your lawyer may seek dismissal or reduction.
In Fairfax County, simple possession of a controlled substance carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine for a first offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (first offense) | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record, employment barriers |
| Simple Possession (second offense) | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Enhanced penalties possible |
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 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our tagline: “Advocacy Without Borders.” In Fairfax County, we have 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, and 5 other favorable outcomes (97% favorable outcome rate). A personal use defense lawyer Fairfax County from our team understands local court procedures.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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
Mr. Sris, founder and managing attorney, also oversees all criminal defense matters. He is a former prosecutor with bar admissions in VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY.
Fairfax County Simple Possession Case Results
In Fairfax County, we have 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate). Examples include possession of marijuana charges dismissed or resolved through nolle prosequi at Fairfax County GDC and Circuit Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Visit Our Fairfax Location
Our Fairfax location is minutes from Fairfax County General District Court, accessible via I-66 and the Fairfax County Parkway. We serve Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
Looking for a Simple Possession lawyer near Fairfax County? We are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Possession in Fairfax County
What is the penalty for simple possession in Fairfax County?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. First-offender programs may allow dismissal upon completion of terms.
Can simple possession charges be expunged in Fairfax County?
Yes, if the case ends in acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. Virginia allows expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 for these outcomes.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple possession charge in Fairfax County?
Yes. Even a first-offense misdemeanor creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A lawyer can negotiate first-offender diversion or dismissal.
How long does a simple possession case take in Fairfax County?
Misdemeanor trials at Fairfax County GDC typically resolve in 4-8 weeks from arraignment. First-offender programs may take 6-12 months to complete.
What is the difference between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute?
Simple possession is personal use. Possession with intent to distribute (PWID) is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-248, carrying 5-40 years in prison.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.