What are the Penalties in Virginia for Marijuana Possession?
June 26, 2021 by Jean Humbrecht
Possession of marijuana in Virginia is no longer a crime. The offense used to be a misdemeanor and was punished with a fine, jail, mandatory driver’s license suspension and a permanent criminal record. However, the law changed the penalty for marijuana possession in Virginia to a fine in 2020. If you are wondering, what are the penalties in Virginia for marijuana possession, read the post below.
What are the Penalties in Virginia for Marijuana Possession?
Is Possession of Marijuana in Virginia Still Against the Law?
Even though it is not a crime anymore, it still is against the law to knowingly and intentionally possess marijuana in Virginia without a prescription (Va. Code §18.2-250.1). A violation, however, will be treated as a civil penalty.
What are the Penalties in Virginia for Marijuana Possession?
The penalty for possession of marijuana in Virginia is now civil only and no longer criminal. The penalty is a fine up to $25. The offense is no longer punished with jail time or driver’s license suspension. Additionally, there will be no court costs assessed after a person is convicted (as there are for all other convictions). Additionally, a conviction will no longer be reported on a person’s criminal record.
However, if a person is convicted of possession of marijuana in Virginia and was operating a commercial motor vehicle at the time of the possession, the conviction will be reported on the person’s driving record.