Simple Possession Lawyer Hanover County — What Is Your Best Defense?
In Hanover 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. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results in Hanover County. A Simple Possession lawyer Hanover County can help protect your record.
What Is Simple Possession Under Virginia Law?
Virginia law defines simple possession as knowingly possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. Under Va. Code § 18.2-250, this includes possession of Schedule I or II drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine. Unlike possession with intent to distribute, simple possession does not require evidence of selling or sharing the drug. The prosecution must prove you knew the substance was present and that it was a controlled substance. A drug possession defense lawyer Hanover County can challenge whether the police had legal grounds to search you or your property. If the search was illegal, any evidence found may be suppressed, potentially skilled to a dismissal.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources for Hanover County Drug Cases
For the official text of Virginia’s drug possession laws, visit the Virginia General Assembly’s code for § 18.2-250. For court procedures and scheduling, see the Hanover County General District Court website.
How Simple Possession Cases Proceed in Hanover County
Hanover 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.
- Step 1: Arrest or Summons. You receive a summons or are arrested. A magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Step 2: First Court Date. You appear at Hanover County General District Court (7507 Library Drive, Suite 201). The judge reads the charge and sets a trial date.
- Step 3: Discovery. Your attorney requests the police report, lab results, and any body camera footage from the prosecution.
- Step 4: Pre-Trial Motions. Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence if the search was illegal. This is often the strongest defense.
- Step 5: Trial or Plea. If no suppression motion succeeds, you may negotiate a plea or proceed to trial before a judge.
- Step 6: Sentencing or Diversion. If convicted, sentencing occurs immediately. If eligible, a first-offender program may result in dismissal after probation.
In Hanover 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 | Possible 6-month license suspension | Permanent criminal record; employment barriers |
| Simple Possession (Marijuana – first offense) | Civil Penalty | None | $25 | None | No criminal record if paid |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Hanover County Drug Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. The firm has 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. We provide case-specific strategies for each client’s situation.
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 Hanover County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results in Hanover County: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Hanover County courts (7507 Library Drive). Accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, and Route 301.
Simple Possession lawyer near Hanover County — serving Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Possession in Hanover County
What is the penalty for simple possession in Hanover County, Virginia?
Yes. Simple possession of a Schedule I or II drug is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. First-offense marijuana possession is a civil penalty of $25.
Can simple possession charges be expunged in Hanover County?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A personal use defense lawyer Hanover County can help determine eligibility.
How does bail work for a drug possession charge in Hanover County?
It depends. 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 felonies.
Do I need a Simple Possession lawyer in Hanover County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries up to 12 months jail and creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A Simple Possession lawyer Hanover County can negotiate for first-offender diversion or challenge illegal searches.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for drug cases in Hanover County?
Hanover County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Hanover County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
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.