Simple possession under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. is a federal crime carrying up to one year in prison for a first offense; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Alexandria, Virginia. A Simple Possession lawyer Alexandria can help you handle the federal system.
Simple Possession Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia
Federal simple possession is defined under 21 U.S.C. § 841(a) as the unlawful possession of a controlled substance. This includes drugs such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana (though marijuana is treated differently under federal law). A first offense carries up to one year in prison and a fine of at least $1,000. Subsequent offenses carry up to two years in prison and a $2,500 fine. The statute is enforced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, which prosecutes cases in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia in Alexandria. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | U.S. Department of Justice
For the full text of the federal simple possession statute, see 21 U.S.C. § 841 (U.S. Department of Justice — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines, see U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (U.S. Sentencing Commission — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses. We have observed that early intervention and a strong factual defense can lead to more favorable outcomes.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Contact a Simple Possession lawyer Alexandria immediately.
- Preserve all evidence and documents related to your case.
- Attend all court hearings and follow your attorney’s advice.
- Explore options for diversion or alternative sentencing.
In Alexandria, federal simple possession carries penalties under 21 U.S.C. § 841, including up to one year in prison for a first offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense Simple Possession | Federal Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | At least $1,000 | Possible federal driver’s license suspension | Loss of federal benefits, immigration consequences |
| Second Offense Simple Possession | Federal Misdemeanor | Up to 2 years | At least $2,500 | Possible federal driver’s license suspension | Loss of federal benefits, immigration consequences |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. The firm is known for its commitment to client advocacy and has handled numerous federal criminal cases in Alexandria.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Alexandria. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary.
Our location in Arlington is approximately 5 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia in Alexandria, with access via I-395 and Route 1. We serve as a Simple Possession lawyer near Alexandria. Serving the communities of Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, Kingstowne. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (703) 589-9250
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Possession in Alexandria
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical.
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole.
What is federal criminal court and how is it different in VA?
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines than state charges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles federal defense — (888) 437-7747.
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines than state charges.
How do federal sentencing guidelines work in Alexandria (City), Virginia?
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines — a points-based calculation using offense level and criminal history category. While advisory since Booker (2005), guidelines strongly influence sentencing. Mandatory minimum statutes override downward departures in many drug, firearm, and child exploitation offenses. Acceptance of responsibility, substantial assistance (§ 5K1.1), and safety-valve eligibility materially reduce exposure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — (888) 437-7747.
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against simple possession charges?
Defense strategies for simple possession in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under the Federal Criminal Code to build the strongest possible defense.
Defense strategies for simple possession in Virginia may include challenging evidence and negotiating with prosecutors.
What should I do if I am facing simple possession charges in Virginia?
If facing simple possession charges in Virginia, contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
If facing simple possession charges in Virginia, contact a federal criminal attorney immediately.
Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer
Arlington County Federal Criminal Lawyer
Last verified: April 2026 | Page generated: 2026-04-28