Marijuana Possession Lawyer Prince William County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Marijuana possession in Prince William 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. has 141 documented results in Prince William County. A marijuana possession lawyer Prince William County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical prescription. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, which defines simple possession as knowingly possessing marijuana without authorization. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute, which carries more severe penalties. Even a first offense creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available through the Prince William County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Marijuana Charge
Prince William County General District Court handles all misdemeanor marijuana possession trials. Prosecutors there routinely review police reports for procedural errors. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Prince William County can file motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated during the stop or search.
- Receive a summons or be arrested and taken before a magistrate.
- Attend your arraignment at the Prince William County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery, file pre-trial motions, and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Proceed to a bench trial in General District Court or demand a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- If convicted, your attorney can argue for alternative sentencing or appeal the verdict.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Prince William County
In Prince William County, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Criminal record, possible drug education |
| Simple Possession (Subsequent) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Increased likelihood of jail time |
| Possession > 1 oz (Intent to Distribute) | Felony | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Felony record, severe long-term impacts |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local court system and how to build an effective defense strategy.
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
In Prince William County, we have 141 documented criminal case results: 118 dismissed/not guilty, 19 reduced/amended, and 1 other favorable outcome, representing a 98% favorable outcome rate. For example, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris, has successfully amended felony distribution charges down to simple possession in neighboring jurisdictions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Prince William County Marijuana Possession Defense
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts (9311 Lee Avenue). We are your local marijuana arrest lawyer Prince William County, serving Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
No. Simple possession of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. However, possession of more than one ounce can be charged as possession with intent to distribute, which is a felony.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Prince William County?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (dropped charges). Most convictions cannot be expunged. A first-offense marijuana possession may qualify for dismissal through a first-offender program, which could then make you eligible for expungement.
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?
Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with police. Contact a cannabis charge defense lawyer Prince William County as soon as possible to begin building your defense and protecting your rights.
How can a lawyer help with a marijuana possession case?
A marijuana possession lawyer Prince William County can challenge the legality of the stop or search, question the evidence chain of custody, negotiate for a diversion program, or take your case to trial. An experienced attorney is critical for exploring all avenues to avoid a conviction.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI defense in Prince William County and criminal defense in Fairfax County. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.