Cannabis Possession Lawyer Lexington — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Lexington 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 cannabis possession lawyer Lexington from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the evidence and seek dismissal or a first-offender program.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law criminalizes the possession of marijuana. 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 5 felony, carrying 1-10 years in prison. Possession with intent to distribute is a more serious felony. The statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). A cannabis arrest lawyer Lexington can explain how these charges apply to your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Resources & Court Information
For the official text of the law, refer to the Virginia Code. Court procedures for Lexington are handled at the Lexington General District Court. You can find more information on the Virginia Courts website for Lexington.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Lexington Court
In Lexington General District Court, prosecutors must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed marijuana. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Lexington examines the stop, search, and seizure for constitutional violations. Common defenses include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, the scope of a search, or the chain of custody of the alleged substance. The court also considers first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a cannabis possession lawyer Lexington immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Case Review: Your attorney will review the police report, evidence, and circumstances of your arrest.
- Defense Strategy: Develop a strategy, which may involve filing motions to suppress evidence or negotiating for a first-offender disposition.
- Court Appearances: Your lawyer will represent you at all hearings in Lexington General District Court.
- Resolution: Work toward the best possible outcome, whether dismissal, reduction, or compliance with a first-offender program.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Lexington
In Lexington, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties of up to 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 suspension | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Possession >1 oz, <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (varies) | 1-40 years based on weight | Varies | 6-month suspension | Severe felony penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to your case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we fight aggressively for every client. We understand the local Lexington court procedures and the serious impact a marijuana conviction can have on your future, especially for students and professionals.
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 & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes. In Lexington, we have 14 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. For example, our team has successfully secured dismissals for charges like “No Registration Card/License in Possession” in other Virginia jurisdictions through motions or negotiations. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor and firm founder with multi-state bar admissions who provides strategic oversight.
Contact Our Lexington Cannabis Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Lexington courts on South Main Street. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. We are your local cannabis possession lawyer Lexington near VMI and Washington and Lee University, serving the Lexington community.
Availability: 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Lexington, VA?
It depends. Possession of one ounce or less is a misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. The specific weight and circumstances determine the charge.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged in Lexington?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (dropped charges). A first-offender dismissal may qualify. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Lexington Circuit Court.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Va. Code § 18.2-259.1 mandates a six-month driver’s license suspension for any drug conviction, including simple marijuana possession, even if no vehicle was involved. A restricted license for work may be available.
What is a first-offender program for marijuana in Virginia?
Under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, the court can defer finding guilt for a first-time possession charge. Upon successful completion of terms like community service and drug education, the charge is dismissed. This avoids a conviction.
Should I hire a lawyer for a simple marijuana ticket?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record, can suspend your license, and affect employment or student status. A cannabis possession lawyer Lexington can fight for a dismissal or first-offender result to avoid these consequences.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, consider our lawyers for Henrico County or Chesterfield County. For other legal needs in Lexington, see our DUI Lawyer Lexington or Family Law Lawyer Lexington pages.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.