Marijuana Possession Lawyer Prince George County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Marijuana possession in Prince George County is a criminal offense under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying penalties from a fine to jail time. A marijuana possession lawyer Prince George County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense at the Prince George County General District Court. Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, has documented results in the area.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Under Virginia law, simple possession of marijuana (one ounce or less) by an adult 21 or older is a civil violation punishable by a $25 fine, per Va. Code § 4.1-1100. However, possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Possession of one pound or more is a felony. For individuals under 21, any possession remains a criminal offense. The law is specific, and charges depend on the amount and circumstances.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s marijuana laws, refer to the Va. Code Title 4.1, Chapter 11 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Prince George County can be found at the Prince George County Combined Court website.
Defending a Cannabis Charge in Prince George County
If you are charged with marijuana possession in Prince George County, your case will begin at the Prince George County General District Court at 6601 Courts Drive. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. A strong defense often involves challenging the legality of the search that found the marijuana, as the Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. If the police lacked probable cause or a valid warrant, the evidence may be suppressed, skilled to a dismissal. For first-time offenders, a deferred disposition under Va. Code § 18.2-251 may be an option to avoid a conviction.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a defense attorney immediately after arrest or receiving a summons. Do not speak to investigators without counsel.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain the police report, witness statements, and lab analysis to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Motion to Suppress: If the search was unconstitutional, your lawyer will file a motion to suppress the marijuana evidence, which can cripple the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal. If a fair plea cannot be reached, they will prepare for a bench trial in General District Court.
- Appeal or Expungement: If convicted, you may appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial. If the case is dismissed, you can later petition for expungement.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Virginia
In Prince George County, marijuana possession penalties range from a civil fine for a small amount to felony incarceration for large quantities, with mandatory driver’s license suspension for any conviction.
| Offense (Va. Code) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (Adult 21+) | Civil Violation | None | $25 | No suspension | Civil penalty, not criminal |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb (§ 18.2-250.1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Criminal record, possible drug education |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb (§ 18.2-250.1) | Class 5 Felony | 1 – 10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession by person <21 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Criminal record, juvenile penalties may apply |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, our team understands how to build a defense. Our attorneys, including former Maryland prosecutor Kristen Fisher, use their insight into how cases are built to challenge evidence and seek favorable outcomes. We serve clients throughout Prince George County and Central Virginia.
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 achieving positive results for clients. In past cases, we have successfully argued for the suppression of illegally obtained evidence, skilled to dismissals. We have also negotiated amendments of more serious distribution charges down to simple possession. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we have secured amendments of distribution charges to simple possession. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Marijuana Possession Defense Near Prince George County
Our Richmond location serves clients in Prince George County and the surrounding Hopewell area. We are accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. If you need a marijuana arrest lawyer Prince George County, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
It depends on the amount. Possession of one pound or more is a Class 5 felony. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a misdemeanor. Possession of one ounce or less by an adult is a civil violation.
Will I go to jail for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
Not necessarily. For a first-time misdemeanor possession charge, the court often considers alternatives like probation, drug education, or a deferred disposition. An attorney can argue for these options to avoid jail time. However, the risk exists, especially for larger amounts.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Virginia?
Yes, under certain conditions. If the charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecution enters a nolle prosequi, you can petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged, making a favorable initial outcome critical.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple possession ticket?
Yes. Even a civil violation creates a record. A misdemeanor charge carries jail risk and a mandatory driver’s license suspension. A lawyer can protect your rights, challenge the stop or search, and work to minimize the long-term impact on your record and driving privileges.
What is the police procedure for a marijuana possession stop?
Police must have reasonable suspicion to stop you and probable cause to search. They may claim the odor of marijuana, but this is contested. Never consent to a search. Politely state you wish to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.
Related Pages: For other legal issues in Prince George County, see our pages on DUI Defense and Criminal Defense. For statewide information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.