Marijuana Possession Lawyer Greene County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Greene County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for marijuana charges in Greene County General District Court. Our marijuana possession lawyer Greene County team offers 24/7 consultations.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical prescription. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of any amount up to one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 5 felony, carrying 1-10 years in prison. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute, which carries more severe penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-250.1. Court procedures and information for Greene County can be found on the Greene County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Greene County
Prosecutors in Greene County General District Court handle marijuana possession cases. A strong defense often challenges the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the marijuana. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches. If the police lacked probable cause or a valid warrant, the evidence may be suppressed, skilled to a dismissal.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer Greene County immediately after being charged to discuss the specifics of your case and police interaction.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain the police report, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Motion to Suppress: If the search was illegal, your lawyer can file a motion to suppress the marijuana evidence, which is often the key to getting charges dropped.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or diversion program. If a fair deal isn’t reached, they will prepare for a bench trial in Greene County GDC.
- Resolution: Work toward the best possible outcome, whether dismissal, reduction to a non-drug offense, or enrollment in a first-offender program to avoid a conviction.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Greene County
In Greene County, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a 6-month driver’s license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Permanent criminal record, possible professional license issues |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Felony record, loss of firearm rights, immigration consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Drug Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We have handled thousands of criminal cases, including drug offenses. Our approach is to scrutinize every detail of the arrest process, from the traffic stop to the search, to protect your rights.
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 team has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in drug cases. For example, we have successfully had charges of distribution of marijuana amended down to simple possession. In other cases, motions to suppress evidence have led to complete dismissals.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Greene County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Greene County courts. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33. As a marijuana possession lawyer Greene County near Stanardsville and Ruckersville, we provide dedicated local defense. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for first-offense marijuana possession in Greene County?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The maximum penalty is 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a mandatory 6-month driver’s license suspension. However, first-time offenders may qualify for a diversion program to avoid a conviction.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, you can petition for expungement if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or the prosecutor entered a nolle prosequi. A conviction for marijuana possession generally cannot be expunged, which is why fighting the charge initially is critical.
Do I need a cannabis charge defense lawyer Greene County for a simple possession charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries jail time and creates a permanent record that affects employment, housing, and education. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Greene County can challenge the evidence and seek diversion programs to protect your future.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in Greene County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer Greene County as soon as possible to begin building your defense, focusing on the circumstances of your stop and search.
Can the police search my car if they smell marijuana?
Virginia law has changed. The odor of marijuana alone no longer provides probable cause for a vehicle search. However, police may use other observations (e.g., visible contraband) to justify a search. An attorney can file a motion to suppress if the search was unlawful.
Related Legal Help
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI in Greene County, other criminal defense, and reckless driving. For a broader view of our criminal practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also serve neighboring areas like Fairfax County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information subject to change.