Cannabis Possession Lawyer Gloucester County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Gloucester 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. has 9 documented case results in Gloucester County.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the knowing or intentional possession of marijuana without a valid prescription. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. For adults 21 and over, possession of up to one ounce is a civil penalty with a $25 fine. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound by an adult is a Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500. However, possession of any amount by someone under 21 remains a criminal offense. Distribution, possession with intent to distribute, and possession in certain locations (like school grounds) are felony charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Gloucester County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (Official Virginia Law on Possession of Marijuana)
- Gloucester County General District Court Website
Local Court Process for a Marijuana Charge in Gloucester County
Your case will begin at the Gloucester County General District Court at 7400 Justice Drive. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Gloucester County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 are available; successful completion results in dismissal. An experienced marijuana charge defense lawyer Gloucester County can handle this process to seek the best possible outcome, which may include a deferred disposition.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charge and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if the search or seizure was unlawful.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge. If an agreement is reached, the court will accept the plea and impose the sentence or dismiss the charge upon completion of terms.
Potential Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Virginia
In Gloucester County, simple possession of marijuana by someone under 21 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, but penalties escalate sharply for larger amounts or intent to distribute.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (Adult 21+) | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | Civil penalty, not criminal |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb (Adult 21+) | Class 3 Misdemeanor | None | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
| Possession (Under 21) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days* | Up to $500* | Possible DMV points | Criminal record, driver’s license suspension possible |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | License suspension | Felony record, severe long-term consequences |
*First offense simple possession penalties are typically lower; jail is often suspended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Gloucester County Cannabis Defense Team
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local Gloucester County court procedures and the strategies that can lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
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
Documented Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 9 total documented case results across all practice areas in Gloucester County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute—approaches each case with a detailed strategy. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Cannabis Possession Defense Near Gloucester County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Gloucester County courts. We are your local cannabis possession lawyer Gloucester County, accessible via Route 17 and Route 14. We serve the communities of Gloucester and Gloucester Point.
Available 24/7 for phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
No, simple possession of one ounce or less by an adult is a civil penalty. However, possession of more than one ounce, possession by a minor, or possession with intent to distribute can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Gloucester County?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A first-offender dismissal for marijuana possession may qualify for expungement. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Gloucester County Circuit Court.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in Gloucester County?
Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone but your attorney. Contact a cannabis arrest lawyer Gloucester County as soon as possible to begin building your defense, which may involve challenging the stop or search.
What’s the difference between a civil penalty and a misdemeanor for marijuana?
A civil penalty, like a traffic ticket, results in a fine but no jail time and no criminal record. A misdemeanor is a criminal charge that can lead to jail time, a larger fine, and a permanent criminal record visible on background checks.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Even a first-time charge can result in a criminal record that affects employment, housing, and education. A cannabis possession lawyer Gloucester County can often secure a first-offender dismissal or reduction to a non-criminal offense.
Related Legal Information
For more information on criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. If you are facing other charges in the area, consider reading about a DUI lawyer in Gloucester County or a family law attorney in Gloucester County. For defense in neighboring jurisdictions, see our page for a criminal defense lawyer in Henrico County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.