Cannabis Possession Lawyer Prince George County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Prince George County 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. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for cannabis charges at the Prince George County General District Court.
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, carrying 1-10 years in prison. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute, which carries more severe penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and information can be found on the Prince George County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Prince George County
Prosecutors at the Prince George County General District Court handle marijuana possession cases. A strong defense often involves challenging the legality of the search that discovered the marijuana. 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 case dismissal. An experienced cannabis arrest lawyer Prince George County will examine every detail of the stop and search.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a lawyer immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain police reports and review the circumstances of your arrest.
- Defense Strategy: Develop a strategy, which may include filing a motion to suppress evidence.
- Court Appearances: Your lawyer will represent you at all hearings in Prince George County General District Court.
- Resolution: Work toward the best possible outcome, such as dismissal, reduction, or diversion.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Virginia
In Prince George County, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record, employment issues |
| Possession >1 oz, <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
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 handled thousands of criminal cases across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights and future. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating a deep understanding of state law and legislative process.
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 and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients. In one case, a charge for “No Registration Card/License in Possession” in Essex County GDC was dismissed. In another, a similar charge in Fairfax County GDC was nolle prosequi (dropped by the prosecution). While every case is unique, our team works diligently to seek dismissals, reductions, or alternative resolutions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Prince George County Cannabis Defense Lawyer Near Me
Our Richmond location serves clients in Prince George County. We are accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. We provide legal representation for residents in Prince George and the Hopewell area.
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
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince George County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include simple marijuana possession under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A first-offense marijuana possession charge that is dismissed through a first offender program may qualify for expungement. The petition is filed in the Prince George County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time marijuana charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. A cannabis possession lawyer Prince George County can protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and seek alternatives to a conviction that preserve your record.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a marijuana charge?
Prince George County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor marijuana possession trials. If you are charged with a felony for possessing over an ounce, your preliminary hearing will be in GDC, but the jury trial would be in Prince George County Circuit Court. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Can the police search my car for marijuana?
Police need probable cause to search your vehicle. The smell of marijuana alone can establish probable cause in Virginia. However, a skilled marijuana charge defense lawyer Prince George County can challenge whether the officer had sufficient legal justification for the stop and subsequent search, potentially getting evidence thrown out.
Related Legal Help in Prince George County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI/DWI, other criminal defense matters in Virginia, and criminal defense in nearby 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.