Marijuana Possession Lawyer Greene County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A marijuana possession charge in Greene County is a serious offense under Virginia law, carrying potential jail time and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients at Greene County General District Court. Our marijuana possession lawyer Greene County team has documented results in Virginia. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
In Virginia, simple possession of marijuana is defined as knowingly possessing marijuana without a valid prescription or license. The specific statute governing this offense is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. This law classifies possession of up to one ounce of marijuana by a person 21 years or older as a civil offense punishable by a $25 fine. However, possession of more than one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor, and possession with intent to distribute carries felony penalties. The legal field for cannabis charges is complex and has undergone recent changes.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene 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 local rules can be found on the Greene County General District Court website.
Defending a Greene County Cannabis Charge
Facing a cannabis charge in Greene County requires immediate action. The Greene County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at the Greene County General District Court located at 85 Stanard Street in Stanardsville. A strategic defense often begins with challenging the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of the marijuana. Police must have probable cause or a valid warrant; without it, the evidence may be suppressed. The specific circumstances of your arrest and the details noted in the police report are critical to building your defense.
- Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer Greene County immediately after being charged. Do not speak to investigators without counsel.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports, body camera footage, and lab analysis reports.
- A motion to suppress evidence may be filed if your Fourth Amendment rights against unlawful search and seizure were violated.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor, seeking dismissal, reduction to a civil offense, or entry into a diversion program.
- If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare for and represent you at trial in Greene County General District Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Greene County
In Greene County, penalties for marijuana possession depend on the amount and prior record, ranging from a civil fine to a year in jail.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (age 21+) | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession > 1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Distribution/PWID | Felony (varies) | 5-40 years** | Varies | Suspension | Mandatory minimums apply |
*Jury can recommend 12 months/$2,500. **Depends on weight and prior convictions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Greene County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing drug charges across Virginia, including in Greene County. We understand the local court procedures and work diligently to protect your future.
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 history of achieving positive results in drug possession cases. For example, we have successfully negotiated amendments for clients charged with distribution of marijuana, resulting in the charge being reduced to simple possession. In other cases, we have secured outright dismissals or favorable terms through first-offender programs. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Greene County Marijuana Possession Lawyer
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Greene County. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33. If you need a marijuana possession lawyer near Greene County or the Stanardsville courthouse, we can help. We serve the communities of Stanardsville and Ruckersville.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Greene County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Greene County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Greene County General District Court (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville, VA 22973). 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate)
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Greene County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Greene County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate)
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
How does bail work in Greene County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Greene County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Greene County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Greene County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Greene County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Greene County General District Court (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville, VA 22973). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Greene County?
Greene County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Greene County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Greene County General District Court (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville, VA 22973) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI defense in Greene County and criminal defense in neighboring Fairfax County. For a broader overview of our services, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.