The Collins Law Firm, P.C. | Criminal | Traffic | Family | Custody Attorneys
Schedule A Free Consultation. Available 24 Hours A Day. Call: 757-818-9539
The Collins Law Firm, P.C. | Criminal | Traffic | Family | Custody Attorneys
757-818-9539

Over 50 Years Of Combined High-Quality Representation

Drug Charges Can Be Life-Changing

If the police find illegal drugs on you or in your vehicle, you could be facing serious criminal charges. Possession of any drug other than marijuana is an automatic felony, and if you are found with a substantial amount of marijuana, you could also be charged with a felony. Possession charges can quickly turn into drug distribution charges such as possession with intent to distribute based on the amount of the drug you are found in possession of.

It is important to contact an attorney who has experience defending drug crimes right away if you have been charged with possession in Virginia.

How Our Firm Can Help You Through Possession And Distribution Charges

Contact The Collins Law Firm, P.C., for a strong defense. We have more than 50 years of combined experience practicing law in Portsmouth and the surrounding area. We will provide personal one-on-one attention and address all of your concerns. We will personally handle your case from beginning to end, rather than delegating it to a less experienced lawyer.

We will work to minimize your charges and consequences following a drug possession charge such as:

  • Possession of cocaine, including crack cocaine
  • Marijuana possession
  • Heroin possession
  • Possession of illegally obtained prescription drugs
  • Possession of paraphernalia
  • Possession with intent to distribute drugs/PWID

Possible penalties for drug possession include jail, driver’s license revocation, fines, probation and a permanent criminal record.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Charges

Clients facing drug charges often have urgent questions about their legal situation and the steps they should take to protect their rights.

What should I do immediately after being charged with a drug crime?

Taking immediate action after drug charges can significantly impact your case outcome and protect your legal rights.

Essential steps include:

  • Stay calm and avoid answering questions without legal representation present
  • Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately for case management
  • Understand the specific charges and potential penalties you may face
  • Gather relevant documents, photographs and witness contact information
  • Follow all bail conditions and court orders strictly to avoid complications

These actions help establish a strong foundation for your defense while protecting your constitutional rights.

What are the penalties for possession of different types of drugs in Virginia?

Virginia drug laws categorize controlled substances into schedules based on abuse potential and medical use under the Virginia Drug Control Act.

Drug schedules include:

  • Schedule I: High abuse potential, no medical use (heroin, LSD, synthetic drugs like bath salts)
  • Schedule II: High abuse potential, accepted medical use (fentanyl, cocaine)
  • Schedule III: Moderate dependency, accepted medical use (anabolic steroids)
  • Schedule IV: Limited dependency, accepted medical use (Valium, Xanax)
  • Schedule V: Low abuse potential, accepted medical use (codeine cough medicines)
  • Schedule VI: Recreational substances (toluene, nitrous oxide)

Drug crime types include possession, distribution and manufacturing with penalties varying by schedule and offense severity. Enhanced penalties apply for school-related offenses, while drug paraphernalia possession remains illegal. Inhalant use carries health risks and legal consequences, and affirmative defense protections exist for overdose medical assistance.

What are common defenses used in drug crime cases?

Effective defense strategies can challenge prosecution evidence and protect defendants from wrongful conviction. Common defenses include:

  • Challenge the legality of search and seizure procedures
  • Dispute evidence validity and chain of custody issues
  • Prove lack of intent to possess or distribute substances
  • Demonstrate drugs belonged to someone else

These defense approaches require thorough case analysis and experienced legal representation to implement effectively. A skilled attorney can determine which strategy best fits your specific case.

Are You Facing Drug Charges?

If you are facing drug charges, you need an experienced defense advocate on your side. Schedule a free consultation now. Call 757-818-9539 or contact us online to speak to a Virginia defense lawyer today.

We serve the Virginia Beach area and surrounding jurisdictions, including Portsmouth, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg, Northampton County, Sussex County, Greensville County and James City County.