In Loudoun 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 42 documented results in Loudoun County. A Simple Possession lawyer Loudoun County can help you explore first-offender programs and dismissal options.
Simple Possession Under Virginia Law
Virginia Code § 18.2-250 makes it unlawful to knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance without a valid prescription. This includes marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and prescription medications not prescribed to you. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. A Simple Possession lawyer Loudoun County understands the specific elements the prosecution must prove, including that you knew the substance was present and that it was a controlled substance.
Last verified: April 2026 | Loudoun County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-250 (official Virginia General Assembly) — The statute defining simple possession.
- Loudoun County General District Court — The court where simple possession cases are heard.
How Simple Possession Cases Proceed in Loudoun County
Loudoun County General District Court handles all misdemeanor simple possession trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. First-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may allow dismissal upon successful completion of terms.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You are arrested and brought before a magistrate who sets bond. You receive a court date for your arraignment.
- Arraignment: You appear before the judge, are formally advised of the charges, and enter a plea. This is your first opportunity to request a court-appointed attorney if eligible.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence if the search or seizure was unlawful. This is a critical stage for challenging the legality of the stop or search.
- Trial or Plea: If no resolution is reached, the case proceeds to trial before a judge (no jury in GDC for misdemeanors). Your attorney presents evidence and cross-examines witnesses.
- Sentencing or Diversion: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence. If eligible and offered, you may enter a first-offender program skilled to dismissal upon completion.
In Loudoun County, simple possession of a controlled substance carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class 5 felony depending on the substance and prior record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (Schedule I/II) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | License suspension possible | Permanent criminal record, loss of voting rights, employment barriers |
| Simple Possession (Schedule III/IV/V/VI) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension possible | Permanent criminal record, employment barriers |
| Marijuana Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension possible | First-offender program may be available |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Loudoun County Simple Possession Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm has documented 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney builds possession cases. We provide case-specific strategies for each client’s situation.
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
Our team also includes Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, and Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor. Together, they bring decades of courtroom experience to Loudoun County simple possession cases.
Case Results in Loudoun County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 42 documented results in Loudoun County: 35 dismissed/not guilty, 5 reduced/amended, and 2 other favorable — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Examples include a possession of marijuana charge resolved by nolle prosequi (prosecutor dropped the charge) and another possession of marijuana charge reduced to reckless driving.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Loudoun County Location
Our Ashburn location serves clients at Loudoun County courts (18 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176), accessible via major highways. We serve the communities of Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, South Riding, Brambleton, Aldie, Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, and Round Hill.
If you need a drug possession defense lawyer Loudoun County or a personal use defense lawyer Loudoun County, we are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Ashburn/Loudoun
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Room No. 403, Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Possession in Loudoun County
Can simple possession charges be dismissed in Loudoun County?
Yes. First-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion of terms. A Simple Possession lawyer Loudoun County can negotiate this option with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
What is the difference between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute?
Simple possession is for personal use. Possession with intent to distribute (PWID) requires evidence of intent to sell, such as large quantities, packaging materials, or scales. PWID carries much higher penalties.
How long does a simple possession case take in Loudoun County?
It depends. A GDC misdemeanor trial typically occurs 4-8 weeks from arraignment. Cases involving first-offender programs may take 6-12 months to complete and receive dismissal.
Will a simple possession conviction affect my job?
Yes. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers, landlords, and licensing boards. This is why pursuing dismissal through a first-offender program is often the best strategy.
Can I get a public defender for a simple possession charge in Loudoun County?
Yes, if you meet income eligibility requirements. The court-appointed attorney fee is $120 for a misdemeanor. However, a private Simple Possession lawyer Loudoun County can provide more personalized attention.