In Stafford County, simple possession of a controlled substance under Va. Code § 18.2-250 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 18 documented results in Stafford County. A Simple Possession lawyer Stafford County can help you explore first-offender programs and dismissal options.
What Is Simple Possession Under Virginia Law?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-250, simple possession means knowingly or intentionally possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. This includes drugs classified under Schedules I through VI. Unlike possession with intent to distribute, simple possession does not require evidence of selling or sharing. A first offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The Commonwealth’s Attorney in Stafford County prosecutes these cases at the Stafford County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Stafford County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources for Stafford County Drug Cases
- Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly) — The statute defining simple possession of controlled substances.
- Stafford County General District Court (official court website) — Court information, docket, and procedures.
How Simple Possession Cases Proceed in Stafford County
Stafford County General District Court handles all misdemeanor simple possession trials. The court typically schedules first appearances within 4-8 weeks of arrest. Prosecutors in Stafford County often offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for eligible defendants.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate who sets bond.
- Arraignment at Stafford County General District Court (1300 Courthouse Road).
- Pre-trial conference with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to discuss plea or diversion.
- If eligible, entry into first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
- Completion of program requirements (drug evaluation, community service, probation).
- Dismissal of charges upon successful program completion.
In Stafford County, simple possession of a controlled substance carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine for a first offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense Simple Possession | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month license suspension | Criminal record; potential employment impact |
| Second Offense Simple Possession | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month license suspension | No first-offender eligibility; mandatory minimums may apply |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Stafford County Drug Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has handled 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute) and brings unique insight from his background as a former prosecutor. The firm’s drug possession defense lawyer Stafford County team understands local court procedures and prosecutor tendencies.
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
Stafford County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 18 documented results in Stafford County: 17 dismissed or not guilty, 1 reduced or amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate in this jurisdiction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Stafford County Location
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Stafford County courts (1300 Courthouse Road). Accessible via I-95, Route 1, Route 17, and Route 610.
Areas Served: Stafford, Aquia Harbour, Brooke
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Possession in Stafford County
Can a simple possession charge be dismissed in Stafford County?
Yes. First-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion of court-ordered conditions. A Simple Possession lawyer Stafford County can evaluate your eligibility for this program.
What is the difference between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute?
Simple possession under Va. Code § 18.2-250 involves personal use amounts. Possession with intent to distribute requires evidence of packaging, scales, or large quantities. A personal use defense lawyer Stafford County can argue the amount was for personal use only.
How long does a simple possession case take in Stafford County?
It depends. Misdemeanor trials in Stafford County General District Court typically resolve within 4-8 weeks from arraignment. First-offender programs may take 6-12 months to complete before dismissal.
Will a simple possession conviction affect my job in Stafford County?
Yes. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Expungement is available for dismissals and acquittals under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, but not for convictions.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time simple possession charge in Stafford County?
Yes. Even first-time charges carry up to 12 months in jail and a permanent record. A Simple Possession lawyer Stafford County can negotiate first-offender programs and protect your rights.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Prince William County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- DUI Lawyer Stafford County
- Reckless Driving Lawyer Stafford County
- Kristen Fisher — Former MD Prosecutor
- Fairfax Office Location