If you are currently facing drug charges of any kind, it is critical that you do not wait another moment–the most important thing you can do is speak with a knowledgeable Richmond drug crime attorney as soon as you can. Contact James A. Bullard Jr. P.C. today to learn more about how our legal team can assist you.
Do I Need a Richmond Drug Crime Attorney?
In many cases, a drug charge is enough to warrant jail time, high fines, and of course, a criminal record. If you are facing drug charges in Virginia, you cannot afford to proceed without an experienced Richmond criminal defense attorney on your side.
Marijuana Possession/Sale Penalties in Virginia
Currently, if you are caught in possession of one ounce of marijuana or less, you will face zero legal repercussions. Further, possession of up to one pound of marijuana is only considered a civil violation that entails a $25 fine.
That being said, those accused of manufacturing, selling, or trafficking marijuana can expect to face very serious penalties. The more of the drug you are caught with, the harsher the penalties you will face. The penalties for the illegal sale of marijuana in the Commonwealth of Virginia are as follows:
- Between 1 ounce and 5 pounds: Up to 10 years of incarceration and a $2,500 fine.
- Between 5 pounds and 100 kilograms: Anywhere between 5 and 30 years of incarceration and a potential $1,000 fine.
- More than 100 kilograms: You may face anywhere between 2 years of incarceration and life in prison. You may also face a hefty $100,000 fine.
- Within 1,000 feet of a school or a school bus stop: Up to 5 years on incarceration and a maximum $100,000 fine.
- To a minor who is at least 3 years younger than you: You may face anywhere between 2 and 50 years of incarceration, as well as a maximum $100,000 fine.
Penalties for the Possession of a Controlled Substance in VA
As you may know, certain drugs are classified by the federal government as “controlled substances.” Controlled substances present serious risks to individuals when unlawfully consumed. This is why if you are caught in possession of a controlled substance, you will most likely face very serious penalties, though the penalties you may face depend on the amount and type of controlled substance you were arrested with. Controlled substances are broken down into “Schedules.” The penalties for the possession of a controlled substance in Virginia are as follows:
- Possession of a Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substance: This is a Class 5 felony, which can entail a maximum of 10 years of imprisonment and a $2,500 fine.
- Possession of a Schedule III controlled substance: This is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which can entail a maximum of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
- Possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance: This is a Class 2 misdemeanor, which can entail a maximum of six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
- Possession of a Schedule V controlled substance: This is a Class 3 misdemeanor, which can entail a maximum $500 fine.
- Possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance: This is a Class 4 misdemeanor, which can entail a $250 fine.
Our Richmond drug crime attorney is here to fight your charges, every step of the way.
Penalties for the Intent to Sell or Distribute a Controlled Substance in Virginia
When someone is charged with intent to sell, they are looking at far harsher consequences than possession charges. Potential penalties for the intent to sell or distribute a controlled substance in Virginia are as follows:
- Possession of a Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substance: A felony, which can entail anywhere between 5-40 years of incarceration and a maximum $500,000 fine. If you are charged for a second or subsequent time, it may result in life in prison.
- Possession of a Schedule III, IV, or V controlled substance: A misdemeanor, which can entail a one-year jail sentence and a $2,500 fine.
Contact a Richmond Drug Crime Attorney
If you’ve been charged with drug possession in Richmond, the time to act is now. Our firm is ready to fight for your rights. Contact James A. Bullard Jr. P.C. today to schedule your initial consultation with our competent legal team.
