In Virginia Beach, 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. A Simple Possession lawyer Virginia Beach from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help. We have 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law defines simple possession as knowingly or intentionally possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. This includes drugs classified under Schedules I through VI. The statute covers actual possession (on your person) and constructive possession (within your control, such as in a vehicle or home). A drug possession defense lawyer Virginia Beach can evaluate whether the evidence supports the charge.
For more information, review the official statute at Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures are governed by the Virginia Beach General District Court.
Virginia Beach General District Court handles all misdemeanor possession trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes these cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion of conditions.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond determination.
- Arraignment in Virginia Beach General District Court where you enter a plea.
- Discovery phase where the prosecution shares evidence.
- Motion practice to suppress evidence if police lacked probable cause.
- Trial or plea negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Sentencing or first-offender program enrollment if eligible.
In Virginia Beach, simple possession of a controlled substance carries a maximum 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 | 6-month license suspension | Criminal record; employment barriers |
| Simple Possession (Schedule III-VI) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month license suspension | Criminal record; employment barriers |
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 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth 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
Mr. Sris, founder of the firm, also provides strategic oversight on complex possession cases. He is a former prosecutor with bar admissions in VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY.
In Virginia Beach, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway), accessible via I-264 and I-64. We are a Simple Possession lawyer near Virginia Beach serving Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for simple possession in Virginia Beach?
Yes. Simple possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-250.
Can simple possession charges be expunged in Virginia Beach?
Yes. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
Do I need a lawyer for simple possession in Virginia Beach?
Yes. Even a first-offense misdemeanor creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A personal use defense lawyer Virginia Beach can negotiate first-offender diversion.
How does bond work for possession charges in Virginia Beach?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (10% to bondsman) is typical for repeat offenses.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for possession in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court handles misdemeanor trials. Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles appeals and felony possession cases. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.