Although recreational use of marijuana is still illegal in most states, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that it is the most commonly used illicit drug in the U.S. In Virginia, harsh penalties apply to those who are caught with marijuana, including losing a driver’s license and jail time. If you’ve been charged with possession, there are a few important things you need to know. Virginia laws are tough, but it is possible to avoid a conviction with the help of an effective attorney. Learn about the potential penalties for Marijuana possession in Virginia here.

What Is Possession of Marijuana?

Virginia law defines possession of marijuana as knowingly or intentionally possessing any form of marijuana. This can include findings of any trace marijuana residue on a bong or pipe. Virginia law does make exceptions for those who have a valid prescription for specific medical conditions such as glaucoma, chronic pain, or cancer. However, if you don’t have these conditions, you may be charged with possession if you’re caught with:

  • Pot, weed, or ganja
  • Chronic
  • Wax or “budder”
  • Hash or honey oil
  • Edibles, such as brownies, cookies, chocolates, or teas
  • Synthetic marijuana, called K2 or spice

Possession Comes With Harsh Penalties

Because many young people believe marijuana is a low-risk drug, Virginia takes possession of marijuana very seriously. Penalties for convictions are as follows:

  • First offenses are met with a misdemeanor offense on a criminal record, 30 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, and driver’s license suspension lasting 6 months.
  • Second and subsequent offenses land the offender with a Class 1 misdemeanor, up to a year in jail, up to $2,500 in fines, and driver’s license suspension lasting 6 months.
  • Possession of one half ounce or more may end in charges of trafficking, which is a felony offense in the state of Virginia. Additionally, the offender may face 10 to 40 years in prison. The sentencing depends on how much marijuana was in the offender’s possession at the time of arrest.
  • Out-of-state offenders should remember that in addition to Virginia’s penalties, they may face charges and punishments in their states of residence, also.

It’s important to note that in some cases, a first-timer may be able to get the charge dismissed if he agrees to acquire no more offenses within 6 months, do 24 hours of community service, and submit to substance abuse evaluations and treatment programs.

How Does Virginia Prove Marijuana Possession Charges?

To charge and convict a person with possession, Virginia must go through many complicated field and laboratory tests. Additionally, proving possession involves complicated organization of evidence and careful handling of legal standards. In short, Virginia must prove that:

  • the substance found was truly marijuana
  • the person was undoubtedly in possession of it
  • the person knew he was in possession of the drug
  • the person knew what he possessed was marijuana

What About Medical Marijuana?

Although support for both medical and recreational marijuana use is growing in the state of Virginia and nationwide, Virginia law makes few exceptions for medical use. The following are important facts about possessing medical marijuana in Virginia:

  • Virginia allows epilepsy patients to use marijuana oil
  • No Virginia law allows doctors to prescribe marijuana
  • It is unlawful to bring legalized marijuana from another state into Virginia
  • Virginia law may honor a legal marijuana prescription from another state

Charged Wih Possession? Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help

In Virginia, marijuana possession charges are serious. If you are caught with marijuana, either in the form of solids, on your person, or residue on your property, an experienced lawyer can help defend your rights.

The team at Kearney, Freeman, Fogarty & Joshi knows the specifics of Virginia’s marijuana laws and can help form a solid defense—which may help you avoid or reduce penalties. If you’re ready to speak with one of our representatives, start a live online chat on our website today.