Underage Possession Defense Lawyer in Henrico County, Virginia
Underage possession of alcohol is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 4.1-305, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine in Henrico County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for minors facing these charges at Henrico County General District Court. An experienced underage possession defense lawyer Henrico County can challenge evidence and seek alternatives to conviction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Underage Alcohol Possession
Virginia law strictly prohibits the possession of alcoholic beverages by persons under 21 years of age. The primary statute is Va. Code § 4.1-305. A conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which creates a permanent criminal record that can impact college admissions, scholarships, and future employment. The case is prosecuted by the Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Henrico County General District Court.
Penalties for Underage Possession in Henrico County
In Henrico County, underage possession of alcohol is a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a mandatory driver’s license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underage Possession of Alcohol (Va. Code § 4.1-305) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month to 1-year suspension | Permanent criminal record, impact on education/jobs |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Defense Strategy for Juvenile Alcohol Charges
An effective defense requires immediate action. In Henrico County, prosecutors may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion of terms like community service and alcohol education. A skilled juvenile alcohol charge lawyer Henrico County will examine the legality of the stop or search, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and advocate for these alternatives to minimize long-term consequences for the minor.
- Contact an underage possession defense lawyer Henrico County immediately after the charge.
- Your attorney will obtain all police reports and evidence from the prosecution.
- Your lawyer will file pre-trial motions to challenge any unlawful search or seizure.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a first-offender program or reduced charge.
- If necessary, prepare for and present a defense at trial in Henrico County GDC.
- Upon a favorable outcome, your attorney can file for an expungement if eligible.
Firm Experience in Henrico County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients in Henrico County, including dismissals and reductions in juvenile cases. Our team understands the local court procedures and works to protect a young person’s future.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results
Our firm has secured favorable outcomes in underage and possession-related cases. In one instance, a charge was taken under advisement and dismissed upon the client’s completion of 50 hours of community service. In another case, a possession-related charge was nolle prossed (dropped by the prosecution). These results demonstrate our approach to resolving cases favorably.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, applies extensive courtroom experience to defend clients in Henrico County.
Contact Our Henrico County Underage Possession Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Henrico County, including Glen Allen, Short Pump, and Innsbrook. We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. If you need an underage possession defense lawyer Henrico County or a juvenile alcohol charge lawyer Henrico County near the Henrico County General District Court, contact us 24/7.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for underage possession of alcohol in Virginia?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The penalty is up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a mandatory driver’s license suspension of 6 months to one year under Va. Code § 4.1-305.
Can an underage possession charge be expunged in Henrico County?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (dropped charges). If the charge is dismissed after completing a first-offender program, expungement may be possible. A conviction is generally not eligible for expungement.
Will my child go to jail for a first-time underage possession charge?
No, incarceration is uncommon for a first offense with no aggravating factors. The court typically focuses on education and community service, especially if a minor in possession defense lawyer Henrico County negotiates for a first-offender program.
How does a minor in possession charge affect college applications?
A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that must be disclosed on many college applications. It can affect admissions and eligibility for certain scholarships. A dismissal or not-guilty verdict avoids this consequence.
What should I do if my child is charged with underage possession in Henrico County?
First, do not let your child speak to police without an attorney. Then, contact an underage possession defense lawyer Henrico County immediately. An attorney can protect their rights, explain the process at Henrico County GDC, and begin building a defense strategy.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing criminal charges in Henrico County, you may also need information on criminal defense. For charges related to driving, see our page on DUI defense in Henrico County. For a broader view of our Virginia practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.