Virginia Marijuana Possession Defense Attorney

Understanding Marijuana Possession Charges in Virginia

As of 2020, marijuana possession is illegal in Virginia unless said substance was obtained from a valid prescription. While simple possession is charged only as a civil violation, the trafficking or illegal sale of marijuana can result in a felony charge, steep fines, and jail time.

The sale of marijuana-related paraphernalia is considered a Class-1 misdemeanor. This also includes advertising the sale of such paraphernalia or knowingly printing material that includes such advertisements. This charge can be upgraded to a Class-6 felony if this paraphernalia is solid to a minor who is at least three years younger than the accused.

Simple Possession Decriminalization in Virginia

Early in 2020, Virginia’s lawmakers moved to decriminalize simple possession of marijuana, defined as amounts of less than an ounce. Possession of marijuana cases and charges now impose a $25 civil penalty.

These changes in the law look likely to pass. However, the current state cannabis laws remain on the books. These laws punish simple possession to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. A second offense can land someone up to a year in jail and $2,500 in fines.

Other current marijuana charges that may soon be diminished or eliminated include:

• Class 1 misdemeanor drug possession defined as having up to half an ounce
• Class 5 felony possession defined as having more than half an ounce
• Six-month driver’s license suspensions for adults convicted of possessing up to an ounce of marijuana
• Employers and educational institutions are free to require applicants to disclose possession charges

Again, the above are laws currently in place that may soon be relaxed or removed by pending legislation. You can still be criminally charged with simple possession of marijuana in Virginia. Even after these laws are enacted, recreational marijuana isn’t legal – you can still be charged with a crime! All of these are important reasons why you should reach out to a Virginia marijuana possession attorney if you have concerns.

Contact Our VA Marijuana Possession Attorneys for Legal Support

If you need defense now or think you may need help in the future, reach out to our defense lawyer immediately! At Virginia Hemp Lawyers™, we are keeping a close watch on our state’s changing laws. We are constantly adapting our legal strategies to defend those charged with possession of marijuana and related crimes.

Firm founder Tyson Daniel is also a founding member and Vice President of the Cannabis Association of Virginia - better known as “CannaBizVA.” It’s a 501(c)(6) lobbying organization and information about the organization can be found at www.cannabizva.org.

Ready to Defend Your Rights? Schedule a Consultation with Virginia's Trusted Marijuana Lawyers!