In Madison County, simple possession of a controlled substance under Va. Code § 18.2-250 is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 45 total documented case results across all practice areas. A Simple Possession lawyer Madison County can help protect your record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Under Virginia law, simple possession means you had a controlled substance without a valid prescription. The statute covers drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription medications. A Simple Possession lawyer Madison County can explain how this law applies to your specific situation. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you knowingly possessed the substance. Possession can be actual (on your person) or constructive (in your control, like in your car or home).
For more information, review the Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly) and the Madison County General District Court website.
Madison County General District Court handles all misdemeanor possession trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Madison County prosecutes these cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may allow dismissal upon successful completion of terms. A drug possession defense lawyer Madison County can evaluate your eligibility for this program.
- Arrest and initial appearance before the magistrate for bond setting.
- Arraignment at Madison County General District Court (1 Main Street, Madison, VA 22727).
- Pretrial motions and discovery exchange with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Negotiation for first-offender program or plea agreement.
- Trial before a judge (no jury in GDC for misdemeanors).
- Appeal to Madison County Circuit Court if needed.
In Madison County, simple possession of a controlled substance carries a maximum penalty of 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 | Criminal record, employment barriers |
| Simple Possession (Marijuana, first offense) | Civil penalty | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
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+ total documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. A personal use defense lawyer Madison County from our team understands local court procedures.
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, founder and former prosecutor, who provides strategic oversight on all criminal cases.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 45 total documented case results across all practice areas in Madison County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Madison County courts. Distance: Fairfax Location serves clients at Madison County courts (1 Main Street). Accessible via Route 29, Route 231.
Simple Possession lawyer near Madison — serving Madison and surrounding communities.
Neighborhoods served: Madison.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for simple possession in Madison County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. First-offense marijuana possession is a civil penalty of $25. Cases are heard at Madison County General District Court. A Simple Possession lawyer Madison County can explain the specific penalties for your charge.
Can a simple possession charge be expunged in Madison County?
Yes, if your case ends in acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. First-offender program completions may also qualify. A drug possession defense lawyer Madison County can file the expungement petition in Madison County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time possession charge in Madison County?
Yes. Even a first offense can result in a permanent criminal record, jail time, and license suspension. A personal use defense lawyer Madison County can negotiate for first-offender diversion or dismissal. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
How does bail work for a possession charge in Madison 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 felonies. Bond can be appealed to Madison County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for possession cases in Madison County?
Madison County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Madison County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
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Last verified: 2026-04. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.