Simple Possession Lawyer in Henrico, Virginia
Simple possession of a controlled substance under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. is a federal offense carrying penalties including up to one year in prison and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Henrico County, with 17 dismissals or not guilty verdicts and 4 reductions — a favorable outcome in all reported instances.
Simple possession under federal law, governed by 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq., prohibits the knowing or intentional possession of a controlled substance without a valid prescription. This includes drugs such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana (where federal law applies). Penalties vary based on the drug type and quantity, but first-time offenders may face up to one year in prison, a fine of at least $1,000, or both. The Controlled Substances Act classifies drugs into schedules, with Schedule I and II substances carrying the most severe penalties. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | justice.gov
For the full text of the Controlled Substances Act, see 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. (U.S. Department of Justice — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines, see U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (U.S. Sentencing Commission — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely seek indictments for simple possession even in cases involving small quantities. We have observed that federal agents often rely on circumstantial evidence, such as proximity to drugs or statements made during questioning.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all evidence, including receipts, messages, or documentation.
- Contact a Simple Possession lawyer Henrico County immediately.
- Review the indictment for procedural errors or constitutional violations.
- Consider negotiating a plea for reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable resolution is not possible.
In Henrico County, simple possession under federal law carries penalties including imprisonment, fines, and supervised release, depending on the drug schedule and quantity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (Schedule I or II) | Misdemeanor (first offense) | Up to 1 year | At least $1,000 | Federal benefits suspension | Supervised release up to 1 year |
| Simple Possession (Schedule III, IV, or V) | Misdemeanor (first offense) | Up to 1 year | At least $1,000 | Federal benefits suspension | Supervised release up to 1 year |
| Simple Possession (Flunitrazepam) | Felony (first offense) | Up to 3 years | At least $5,000 | Federal benefits suspension | Supervised release up to 2 years |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. The firm has 21 documented results in Henrico County: 17 dismissed or not guilty, 4 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. This track record demonstrates the firm’s ability to handle complex federal criminal cases, including simple possession charges.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Henrico County: 17 dismissed or not guilty, 4 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. These results include drug possession cases handled at the Henrico County General District Court and federal matters in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 10 miles from the Henrico County General District Court at 4301 East Parham Road, with access via I-64 and I-95. As a drug possession defense lawyer Henrico County, we serve the communities of Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
(804) 201-9009 | (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Possession in Henrico County
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical. This is governed by 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. and cases are heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Federal charges carry harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical.
What is federal criminal court and how is it different in VA?
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines than state charges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles federal defense — (888) 437-7747.
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines.
How do federal sentencing guidelines work in Henrico County, Virginia?
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines — a points-based calculation using offense level and criminal history category. While advisory since Booker (2005), guidelines strongly influence sentencing. Mandatory minimum statutes override downward departures in many drug, firearm, and child exploitation offenses. Acceptance of responsibility, substantial assistance (§ 5K1.1), and safety-valve eligibility materially reduce exposure. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — (888) 437-7747.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against simple possession charges?
Defense strategies for simple possession in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 21 U.S.C. § 841 et seq. to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing simple possession charges in Virginia?
If facing simple possession charges in Virginia, contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
For more information, visit our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia hub page. You may also find these pages useful: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Caroline County, Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Chesapeake, and Trespass Defense Lawyer Henrico County.
Last updated: 2026-04-28. This page is regularly reviewed for accuracy.