What are the Penalties in Virginia for Possession of Marijuana?
February 13, 2021 by Jean Humbrecht
Marijuana possession in Virginia is no longer a crime. The offense used to be a misdemeanor and was punished with a fine, jail, driver’s license suspension, and a permanent criminal record that could never be expunged. However, in July 2020 the law changed the penalty for marijuana possession in Virginia and it is no longer a crime. If you are wondering, what are the penalties in Virginia for possession of marijuana, read the post below.
Is Marijuana Possession in Virginia Still Against the Law?
It is still against the law to possess marijuana in Virginia (Va. Code §18.2-250.1) without a valid prescription. A violation, however, will be treated as a civil offense-not a criminal offense.
What are the Penalties in Virginia for Possession of Marijuana?
The penalty for a marijuana possession charge in Virginia is now a fine up to $25. It is no longer punished with jail or driver’s license suspension as it was in the past. Additionally, there will be no court costs if a person is convicted (as there are for all other convictions), and a conviction will not be reported on the person’s permanent criminal record.
If the offender was operating a commercial motor vehicle at the time of the possession, the offense will be reported to the Virginia DMV and will be reported on the person’s Virginia driving record if convicted.