What is the Penalty for Possession of Marijuana in Virginia?
April 14, 2021 by Jean Humbrecht
Possession of marijuana in Virginia is no longer a crime. The offense used to be a misdemeanor, punished with a fine, driver’s license suspension, and a permanent criminal record that could never be expunged. However, in July 2020 the law changed the penalty for a possession of marijuana charge in Virginia and it is no longer a crime. If you are wondering, what is the penalty for possession of marijuana in Virginia, read the post below.
Is Possession of Marijuana in Virginia Still Against the Law?
What is the Penalty for Possession of Marijuana in Virginia?
Although it is not a crime, it still is against the law to knowingly and intentionally 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 is the Penalty for Possession of Marijuana in Virginia?
The penalty for a possession of marijuana charge in Virginia is now a fine up to $25. It is no longer punished with jail time 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 criminal record.
Possession of marijuana in Virginia while operating a commercial motor vehicle will, however, be reported to the Virginia DMV and will be reported on the person’s Virginia driving record if convicted.