Marijuana Possession Lawyer Dinwiddie County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Dinwiddie County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A marijuana possession lawyer Dinwiddie County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented local results. Contact a cannabis charge defense lawyer Dinwiddie County for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical prescription. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of up to one ounce by a person 21 or older is subject to a civil penalty of $25. However, possession of more than one ounce is a criminal misdemeanor. Possession with intent to distribute is a felony. The law is complex, and charges can escalate based on quantity, location (e.g., near a school), and prior offenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s drug laws, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website. Court procedures and local rules for Dinwiddie County can be found on the Dinwiddie County Courts website.
Handling a Marijuana Charge in Dinwiddie County
After a marijuana arrest in Dinwiddie County, your case begins at the Dinwiddie County General District Court. Prosecutors may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion. A strong defense often involves challenging the legality of the search or seizure that found the marijuana.
- Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer Dinwiddie County immediately after release or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain the police report and evidence to review the stop and search details.
- We will appear with you at your arraignment in Dinwiddie County General District Court and enter a plea.
- We will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a diversion program.
- If a favorable plea cannot be reached, we will prepare for and represent you at trial.
- If convicted, we can advocate for minimal penalties or explore expungement options if eligible.
Potential Penalties for Marijuana Offenses
In Dinwiddie County, marijuana possession of more than one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Possession with intent to distribute is a felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (21+) | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Likely suspension | Felony record, severe collateral consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have handled firm-wide 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team understands the local Dinwiddie County court system and the strategies needed to protect your rights and future.
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 Dinwiddie County
Our firm has a documented record in Dinwiddie County. We have achieved 4 local results: 2 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 2 charges reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for these cases. For example, our team, including Mr. Sris, has successfully negotiated the amendment of felony distribution charges down to simple possession in other Virginia jurisdictions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Marijuana Possession Lawyer Near Dinwiddie County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Dinwiddie County courts. We are accessible via I-85, Route 1, and Route 460. We provide legal representation to residents of Dinwiddie and McKenney. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Dinwiddie County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Dinwiddie County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Dinwiddie County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a marijuana charge in Dinwiddie County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor marijuana charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. A marijuana possession lawyer Dinwiddie County can challenge evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, or seek diversion programs to avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Dinwiddie County?
Dinwiddie County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Dinwiddie 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.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County and Colonial Heights. If you are facing other charges, consider our Dinwiddie County DUI lawyer or reckless driving attorney services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.