Marijuana Possession Lawyer Orange County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Marijuana possession in Orange County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for cannabis charges at Orange County General District Court. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper. Contact a marijuana possession lawyer Orange County for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical prescription. The specific statute, Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, defines the offense and its penalties. 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, punishable by 1 to 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 | Orange 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 local rules for Orange County can be found on the Orange County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Orange County
An effective defense begins with a detailed review of the stop, search, and seizure. In Orange County General District Court, prosecutors must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the substance. A common defense challenges the legality of the traffic stop or the search that found the marijuana. If the officer lacked probable cause or a valid warrant, the evidence may be suppressed. Another strategy involves questioning the chain of custody or the lab analysis of the substance.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will file a motion for discovery to obtain all police reports and evidence.
- We will analyze the stop and search for constitutional violations to file a motion to suppress.
- We will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, diversion program, or dismissal.
- If no favorable plea is reached, we will prepare for and conduct a trial in Orange County General District Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Orange County
In Orange County, a first-offense marijuana possession charge carries up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, a 6-month driver’s license suspension, and a permanent criminal record.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Subsequent Offense | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Mandatory minimum penalties may apply |
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 attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have documented case results in Orange County, including favorable outcomes for drug-related charges. Our team’s background includes former prosecution and law enforcement experience, providing insight into how the other side builds a case. We focus on a case-specific approach for every client facing a cannabis charge.
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 for Drug Charges
Our firm has a documented record of handling drug possession cases. In neighboring Fairfax County, we have successfully amended charges of distribution/pwid marijuana to simple possession of marijuana. In Bedford County, we secured a dismissal for an underage alcohol possession charge after completion of community service. While these results are from other jurisdictions, they demonstrate our approach to drug-related offenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
For a marijuana arrest lawyer Orange County, our team includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, who provides critical insight into local prosecution strategies.
Contact Our Orange County Marijuana Possession Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Orange County courts (110 N. Madison Road). We provide representation for residents of Orange and Gordonsville. As a marijuana possession lawyer Orange County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Marijuana Possession Lawyer Orange County FAQ
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
No, possession of one ounce or less is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Orange County?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A first-offense marijuana possession charge that is dismissed through a first offender program may qualify for expungement. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
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 misdemeanor marijuana possession, even if no vehicle was involved.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in Orange County?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you speak with a cannabis charge defense lawyer Orange County. Contact a defense lawyer to review the details of your stop and arrest.
What are the possible defenses to a marijuana possession charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, the legality of the search (lack of probable cause or warrant), proving the substance was not marijuana, or arguing you lacked knowledge or control of the substance. A marijuana arrest lawyer Orange County can identify the best strategy.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Orange County DUI defense services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.