If you’re involved in the hemp or cannabis industry in Virginia, receiving a legal notice from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) can be alarming. Whether you’re a grower, processor, or retailer, it’s critical to understand your rights and responsibilities when facing a Notice of Alleged Violation (NOAV) or other enforcement action.
At Virginia Cannabis Lawyers in Roanoke, VA, we help individuals and businesses across the Commonwealth navigate complex cannabis regulations. If you’ve received a VDACS notice, call us today at 540-401-5564 to speak directly with an experienced cannabis attorney.
Step 1: Understand the Nature of the VDACS Notice
The first thing you should do is carefully review the notice:
- Identify the specific allegations or violations VDACS claims.
- Take note of all deadlines for submitting a response or taking corrective action.
- Determine if the notice is a Notice of Alleged Violation (NOAV) or another form of regulatory communication. This can affect the timeline and severity of consequences.
Understanding the type and scope of the notice is crucial to preparing an effective legal response.
Step 2: Contact a Virginia Cannabis Attorney Immediately
Do not attempt to handle a VDACS enforcement action on your own. Virginia's cannabis and hemp laws are evolving, and missteps can lead to hefty fines or even criminal referrals.
At Virginia Cannabis Lawyers, we:
- Interpret complex cannabis laws and regulations on your behalf.
- Help you assess your legal risks and options, including whether to challenge the alleged violations or negotiate a resolution.
- Represent you in communications with VDACS, including informal conferences and hearings.
Call 540-401-5564 now to schedule a confidential consultation with a cannabis attorney in Roanoke, VA.
Step 3: Respond to VDACS (If Required)
If the notice requires a response:
- Follow the instructions outlined in the notice.
- Meet all deadlines—even a late response could worsen the situation.
- If you disagree with the allegations or have already corrected the issue, you may request an Informal Fact-Finding Conference (IFFC) to present your case.
- Document everything: All communications, corrective actions, and supporting evidence should be carefully recorded.
A professional legal response can make the difference between a manageable issue and a major enforcement action.
Step 4: Take Corrective Action if Necessary
If VDACS identifies violations, it's important to act quickly:
- Correct any non-compliant practices related to hemp processing, labeling, or THC content.
- Ensure your products fully comply with Virginia hemp laws and associated federal regulations.
- Provide evidence to VDACS showing that you have resolved the issue.
Taking swift action and showing a willingness to comply can reduce potential penalties.
Step 5: Understand the Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to properly respond to a VDACS notice or resolve the issue can result in serious consequences, including:
- Civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation.
- Referral to law enforcement, especially if THC levels exceed the legal limit.
- Product seizures, remediation orders, or forced destruction of non-compliant crops or products.
Don’t risk your business or freedom. Get legal support today.
Don’t Face VDACS Alone - Call Virginia Cannabis Lawyers Now
If you’ve received a legal notice from VDACS regarding marijuana or hemp, act today and contact Virginia Cannabis Lawyers. We understand the legal and regulatory challenges facing the industry and are here to protect your rights and livelihood.
Call 540-401-5564 or contact us online to speak with a Virginia cannabis attorney.