Underage Possession Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield 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 Chesterfield County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending minors in Chesterfield County General District Court. An Underage Possession Defense Lawyer Chesterfield County can challenge the evidence and seek alternatives to conviction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Underage Alcohol Possession
Virginia Code § 4.1-305 makes it illegal for any person under 21 to purchase or possess any alcoholic beverage. This is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The law applies to public and private places, with limited exceptions for religious or educational purposes. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect college admissions, scholarships, and future employment.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 4.1-305 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Minors
Underage possession cases in Chesterfield County are heard at the Chesterfield County General District Court at 9500 Courthouse Road. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. The court 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.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a court date at Chesterfield County General District Court.
- Consult with an Underage Possession Defense Lawyer Chesterfield County before your first hearing.
- Appear for arraignment and enter a plea of not guilty to preserve all defense options.
- Your attorney will review evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor, and prepare for trial if necessary.
- If eligible, complete a first-offender program for potential dismissal.
- If convicted, your attorney can argue for a suspended sentence and expungement eligibility.
Potential Penalties for Underage Possession
In Chesterfield County, underage possession of alcohol is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase/Possess Alcohol (Under 21) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month to 1-year suspension | Permanent criminal record, possible alcohol education program |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented record of defending clients in Chesterfield County courts. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how these cases are built and challenged.
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
Our firm has handled underage possession cases in Chesterfield County. For example, we secured a dismissal for a client charged with Purchase/Possess Alcohol under Va. Code § 4.1-305 in Chesterfield General District Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on criminal defense matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Contact Our Chesterfield County Underage Possession Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesterfield County. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, and Route 10. We are an Underage Possession Defense Lawyer near Chesterfield Towne Center and Pocahontas State Park. We serve the communities of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for underage possession of alcohol in Chesterfield County?
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 six months to one year.
Can an underage alcohol charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 is generally available if the charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecutor enters a nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged, making a strong defense critical.
Do I need a minor in possession defense lawyer Chesterfield County for a first offense?
Yes. Even a first offense is a criminal misdemeanor with serious penalties. A juvenile alcohol charge lawyer Chesterfield County can negotiate for a first-offender program to avoid a permanent conviction.
Will I go to jail for an underage drinking ticket in Chesterfield County?
It is possible but not certain for a first offense. The court has discretion. Judges often consider alternative sentences like fines, community service, and alcohol education, especially with an attorney advocating for you.
What should I do if my child is charged with underage possession?
Contact an Underage Possession Defense Lawyer Chesterfield County immediately. Do not let your child speak to police without an attorney. An experienced lawyer can protect their rights and work toward the best possible resolution.