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Simple Possession lawyer Goochland County | SRIS, P.C.
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Simple Possession lawyer Goochland County, VA. 1 documented result: 1 reduced/amended. Former prosecutors on staff. 24/7 consultation — (888) 437-7747.
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Simple Possession lawyer Goochland County — What Are Your Options?
A Simple Possession charge in Goochland County falls under Va. Code § 18.2-250, a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Goochland County: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
Simple Possession Under Virginia Law
Virginia Code § 18.2-250 makes it unlawful to knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance without a valid prescription. This includes Schedule I and II drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. A first offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor. A second or subsequent offense can be charged as a Class 5 felony, carrying 1-10 years in prison. The prosecution must prove you knowingly possessed the substance — either actual possession (on your person) or constructive possession (in your control, such as in a car or home).
Last verified: April 2026 | Goochland County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-250 — Possession of controlled substances (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Goochland County General District Court (official Virginia Courts website)
Insider Procedural Edge: Goochland County General District Court
Goochland County General District Court handles all misdemeanor simple possession trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Goochland County prosecutes these cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may allow dismissal upon successful completion of conditions.
- Arrest and initial appearance before the magistrate for bond determination.
- Arraignment at Goochland County General District Court (2938 River Road West, Bldg G).
- Pre-trial conference with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to discuss plea or diversion options.
- If no agreement, bench trial before the judge or jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing hearing if convicted; appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days if needed.
Penalty Table for Simple Possession in Goochland County
In Goochland County, simple possession of a controlled substance under Va. Code § 18.2-250 carries a maximum of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine for a first offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First offense simple possession | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month license suspension (Va. Code § 46.2-391.2) | Criminal record; possible drug education program |
| Second or subsequent offense | Class 5 felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | License suspension | Felony record; loss of voting rights; firearm prohibition |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Handles Simple Possession Cases in Goochland County
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 across Virginia, Maryland, DC, New Jersey, and New York. Our favorable outcome rate exceeds 93%. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Goochland County Commonwealth’s Attorney builds possession cases.
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
Case Results in Goochland County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Goochland County: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Goochland County Location
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Goochland County courts (2938 River Road West), accessible via I-64, Route 6, Route 250, and Route 522.
Looking for a Simple Possession lawyer near Goochland? We serve Goochland, Crozier, and Oilville.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Possession in Goochland County
What is the penalty for a first-time simple possession charge in Goochland County?
Yes. A first offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. License suspension of 6 months also applies under Va. Code § 46.2-391.2.
Can a simple possession charge be dismissed in Goochland County?
Yes. First-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion of drug education and community service. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Goochland County may offer this option.
How does bail work for a simple possession charge in Goochland County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felony possession charges.
Do I need a Simple Possession lawyer in Goochland County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor possession charge creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A lawyer can negotiate first-offender diversion or challenge the legality of the search that led to discovery of the substance.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a possession case in Goochland County?
Goochland County General District Court handles misdemeanor possession trials and felony preliminary hearings. Goochland County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.