Cannabis Possession Lawyer in King William County, Virginia
Simple marijuana possession in King William County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for cannabis charges in King William County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | King William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical cannabis certification. Simple possession of up to one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a mandatory minimum fine of $250. Possession of one pound or more is a felony. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. All misdemeanor trials are held at the King William County General District Court.
Defending a Cannabis Arrest in King William County
If you face a cannabis arrest in King William County, the prosecution must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the substance. A cannabis arrest lawyer King William County examines the stop’s legality, the search’s validity, and the chain of custody for the evidence. Common defenses include lack of probable cause for the stop, an unlawful search, mistaken identity of the substance, or lack of knowledge that the substance was present. For eligible first-time offenders, a lawyer may negotiate a deferred disposition under Va. Code § 18.2-251, resulting in dismissal upon completion of terms.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a marijuana charge.
- Consult with a cannabis possession lawyer King William County immediately.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to review the prosecution’s evidence.
- Attend arraignment at King William County General District Court.
- Your lawyer will negotiate for dismissal, reduction, or a favorable plea based on the evidence.
- If no agreement is reached, proceed to a bench trial in General District Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession
In King William County, a first-offense marijuana possession charge carries up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine, with higher penalties for subsequent offenses or larger amounts.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (1st offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (2nd offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz but <1 lb | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Mandatory $250 min | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Felony record |
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 legal experience and a documented record of over firm-wide 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local procedures in King William County and the strategies needed to defend against drug charges effectively.
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 a documented record of favorable outcomes. In King William County, we have secured results for clients facing criminal charges. For example, our team has successfully negotiated reduced charges and dismissals in drug-related cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
King William County Cannabis Lawyer Near Me
Our Richmond location serves clients at the King William County courts. We represent individuals in King William, West Point, and Aylett. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
FAQs: Marijuana Charge Defense in King William County
What is the penalty for a first-time marijuana possession charge in King William County?
A Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. Your driver’s license may also be suspended for six months. A marijuana charge defense lawyer King William County can often seek a first-offender dismissal to avoid a conviction.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A first-offender dismissal under § 18.2-251 is eligible for expungement five years after the case is dismissed.
What should I do if I’m arrested for cannabis possession?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with law enforcement. Contact a cannabis arrest lawyer King William County as soon as possible to begin building your defense and protecting your rights.
Is medical cannabis legal in Virginia?
Yes. Patients with a valid written certification from a registered practitioner can possess medical cannabis oil. However, possession of marijuana flower without a certification remains illegal and can lead to criminal charges.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple possession charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor charge creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and education. A lawyer can fight for a dismissal, explore first-offender options, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
Related Legal Help in King William County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI/DWI, other criminal defense, and traffic violations in King William County. For a full overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change.