Penalty for Marijuana Possession in Virginia
July 3, 2020 by Jean Humbrecht
Possession of marijuana is not a crime in Virginia anymore. It used to be a misdemeanor, punished with jail, a fine, and mandatory driver’s license suspension. Additionally, a conviction could never be expunged from a person’s permanent criminal record. However, in July 2020 the law in Virginia changed and marijuana possession will no longer be charged as a a crime. It is, however, still against the law. For information on the penalty for marijuana possession in Virginia, read the post below.
The Penalty for Marijuana Possession in Virginia is Now a Civil Penalty
Is Marijuana Possession in Virginia Still Against the Law if it is Not a Crime?
Yes, it is still against the law to knowingly and intentionally possess marijuana in Virginia (Va. Code §18.2-250.1) unless the person obtained the marijuana pursuant to a valid prescription. A violation, however, will not be charged as a criminal offense.
What is the Penalty for Marijuana Possession in Virginia?
The penalty for marijuana possession in Virginia is no longer criminal. The penalty for marijuana possession in Virginia will be a civil penalty only, and will be a fine up to $25. There will not be any court costs, and a conviction will not go on a person’s criminal record.
If a person is convicted of possession of marijuana in Virginia while he or she was operating a commercial motor vehicle, the offense will be reported to the Virginia DMV and will be recorded on the person’s driving record.