Cannabis Possession Lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia
Simple marijuana possession in Dinwiddie County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense. A second offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits possession of marijuana. Simple possession of one ounce or less is a civil penalty for adults 21+, but possession of more than one ounce is a criminal offense. For those under 21, any possession is a criminal offense. The specific penalties depend on the amount and prior record. A cannabis arrest lawyer Dinwiddie County understands these nuances and the local court procedures at the Dinwiddie Courthouse.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Dinwiddie County General District Court website
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Dinwiddie County
Prosecutors in Dinwiddie County routinely pursue marijuana possession charges. The key local procedural fact is that first-time offenders may be eligible for a first offender program under Va. Code § 18.2-251, which can result in dismissal upon completion of terms. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Dinwiddie County can negotiate for this disposition. The court at Dinwiddie Courthouse handles these misdemeanor cases.
- Contact a cannabis possession lawyer Dinwiddie County immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will review the police report for Fourth Amendment search and seizure violations.
- We will appear with you at your arraignment in Dinwiddie County General District Court.
- We negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or a first-offender program.
- If necessary, we prepare for and conduct a trial to challenge the Commonwealth’s evidence.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Dinwiddie County
In Dinwiddie County, marijuana possession penalties range from a civil fine to a year in jail, depending on the amount and your prior record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (21+) | Civil Violation | None | Up to $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz to 1 lb (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz to 1 lb (Subsequent) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession > 1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Dinwiddie County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We have documented case results in Dinwiddie County, including matters handled by our team. We focus on building a strong defense strategy from the start.
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
Our firm has achieved documented results in Dinwiddie County courts. For example, we secured a dismissal for a client charged with “FAIL TO MAINTAIN CONTROL” in DINWIDDIE COUNTY GDC. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our approach involves meticulous case review and assertive advocacy.
Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Dinwiddie County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Dinwiddie County courts (Dinwiddie Courthouse). We are accessible via I-85, Route 1, Route 460, and Route 226. We serve the communities of Dinwiddie and McKenney.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
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 marijuana possession (§ 18.2-250.1). Cases are heard at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Can marijuana charges be expunged in Dinwiddie County?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A first-offense marijuana possession charge that is dismissed through a first-offender program may qualify for expungement. The petition is filed in Dinwiddie County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries up to 12 months jail and creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Charges in Dinwiddie County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. A cannabis possession lawyer Dinwiddie County can protect your rights and seek the best outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a marijuana charge?
Dinwiddie County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor marijuana possession trials. Dinwiddie County Circuit Court handles felony possession trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in Dinwiddie County?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Then, contact a cannabis arrest lawyer Dinwiddie County immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Your attorney will guide you through the bond process and initial court appearance at the Dinwiddie Courthouse.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing a marijuana charge, you may also want to learn about Virginia criminal defense. For other legal matters in our area, consider a Dinwiddie County DUI lawyer or a Dinwiddie County family law attorney. We also serve neighboring areas like Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.