Marijuana Possession Lawyer Prince William County, VA

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals facing marijuana possession charges in Prince William County, Virginia. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, our firm understands how the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases and what it takes to build an effective defense. Marijuana possession laws changed dramatically in Virginia in 2021, and charges that remain on the books require careful handling. A conviction can mean jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that follows you into employment, housing, and education. In Prince William County, these cases are heard at the General District Court on Lee Avenue in Manassas, and our Fairfax location serves clients throughout the county—from Woodbridge and Dale City to Gainesville and Haymarket. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team appear regularly in the Thirty-first Judicial District and work to protect your rights and your future. To discuss your case, call (888) 437-7747 or reach our firm to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Marijuana Possession Means in Prince William County

Virginia’s approach to marijuana possession shifted significantly with the Cannabis Control Act (Va. Code § 4.1-1100 et seq.), effective July 1, 2021. For adults 21 and older, possession of up to one ounce of cannabis in a private residence is now lawful. However, possession of larger amounts remains enforceable, and public consumption is still prohibited statewide. In Prince William County, law enforcement agencies—including the Prince William County Police Department—continue to charge individuals who possess cannabis outside the narrow legal window, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes those cases actively.

The threshold for criminal prosecution is clear. Possession of between one and four ounces is treated as a civil infraction subject to a $25 fine, while possession of more than four ounces becomes a criminal offense. Because the line between a civil penalty and a criminal charge can be thin, anyone facing a marijuana possession accusation in Prince William County should understand the potential consequences. The case will typically begin in the Prince William County General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110), which handles misdemeanor trials and preliminary hearings. Felony-level marijuana offenses are escalated to the Prince William County Circuit Court, where the stakes—including the possibility of a multi-year prison sentence—are considerably higher.

Under Va. Code § 4.1-1100, possession of more than four ounces of cannabis is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine.

Source: Va. Code § 4.1-1100. Virginia Code § 4.1-1100

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

Beyond the immediate penalties, a marijuana possession conviction creates a criminal record that is visible to employers, landlords, and licensing boards. Virginia law does permit expungement in limited circumstances—generally for charges that were dismissed, nolle prossed, or resulted in an acquittal under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2—but a conviction cannot be expunged. For many, the record itself is the longest-lasting consequence. Understanding the local court culture and the prosecutor’s approach is essential, and that is where the experience of a Prince William County marijuana possession lawyer becomes critical.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Marijuana Possession Cases

Every marijuana possession case we handle begins with a careful review of the arrest and evidence. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, knows what the Commonwealth’s Attorney needs to prove and where cases often develop weaknesses. Our Of Counsel team brings deep familiarity with Prince William County court procedures—from the initial appearance before a magistrate to the setting of bond and the scheduling of trial dates. We examine whether the search or seizure that led to the charge complied with constitutional requirements, whether the substance was properly tested and weighed, and whether the Commonwealth can meet its burden of proof on every element of the offense.

Because marijuana possession charges can result from a traffic stop, a call for service, or a field interview, the factual scenarios vary widely. We investigate the circumstances: was the cannabis in plain view? Did the officer have a valid reason for the stop? Were statements made after a proper Miranda warning? In many cases, these procedural questions can lead to a favorable resolution—whether through a motion to suppress, negotiation with the prosecutor, or trial in the General District Court. Virginia permits plea bargaining, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend charges when the facts support it. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to achieve favorable outcomes for each client, taking into account the unique facts of the case and the individual’s goals. Throughout the process, we keep clients informed and prepared for each court appearance.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is a former prosecutor. His background on the other side of the courtroom gives him a practical understanding of how the Commonwealth builds its cases and where defense opportunities arise. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.

Mr. Sris is supported by a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring extensive combined legal experience to criminal defense matters. The firm’s Fairfax location serves Prince William County and all of Northern Virginia. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Is marijuana possession still illegal in Virginia?

Possession of up to one ounce of cannabis by an adult 21 or older is legal in Virginia under Va. Code § 4.1-1100, but possession of larger amounts remains unlawful. Virginia legalized adult-use possession in 2021, yet public consumption is prohibited and commercial retail sales are not yet authorized. Possession of between one and four ounces is a civil infraction with a $25 fine, while possession of more than four ounces remains a criminal offense. The rules differ for individuals under 21, for whom any possession is still illegal.

What are the penalties for marijuana possession in Prince William County?

A charge of possessing more than four ounces of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 12 months in jail and a fine. The case is heard in the Prince William County General District Court. If the amount involved rises to the level of possession with intent to distribute, the charge becomes a felony and moves to Circuit Court, where prison time can be substantially longer. The actual penalty depends on the facts, the defendant’s record, and the outcome of pretrial motions and negotiations.

Can a marijuana possession charge be expunged in Virginia?

Expungement is available in Virginia only when the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi; most convictions cannot be expunged. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, a person whose charge was dismissed or who was found not guilty may petition the Circuit Court to remove the police and court records. A first-offense marijuana possession case may be eligible for deferred disposition under certain conditions, which can lead to a dismissal—and thus, potential expungement. Consult an attorney to determine whether your individual circumstances qualify.

Do I need a lawyer for a marijuana possession charge in Prince William County?

While you are not required to have a lawyer, the consequences of a marijuana possession conviction make legal representation strongly advisable. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney in Prince William County is an experienced prosecutor. An attorney can challenge the legality of the traffic stop or search, negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, and guide you through the court process. Appearing without counsel can put you at a significant disadvantage, especially if the Commonwealth is seeking jail time.

How does a lawyer defend against marijuana possession charges?

A defense lawyer examines the arrest and evidence for constitutional violations, challenges the weight and identification of the substance, and negotiates with the prosecutor to seek a favorable resolution. Common defenses include motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search, arguments that the cannabis belonged to someone else, or that the amount charged is inaccurate. In Prince William County, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel also explore whether the case qualifies for a first-offender program or deferred disposition that can ultimately lead to dismissal.

What should I do if I am charged with marijuana possession in Prince William County?

If you are charged, you should immediately exercise your right to remain silent and contact a criminal defense attorney before discussing the facts with anyone else. Do not post about the case on social media, and preserve any documents, photographs, or messages that may be relevant. The date of your first court appearance will be on your summons; failure to appear can result in an additional charge and a bench warrant. An attorney can guide you through the process and begin building your defense right away. For a confidential consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Virginia Legal Resources:
Virginia Code § 4.1-1100 – Cannabis Control Act
Prince William County General District Court

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.