Cannabis Possession Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Arlington 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. has 21 documented results in Arlington County.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid prescription. The specific statute, Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, defines the offense and its penalties. Possession of one ounce or less 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. Possession of one pound or more is a felony with more severe penalties. The law also prohibits possession with intent to distribute, which carries felony charges regardless of quantity.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filing information for Arlington County can be found on the Arlington County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Arlington County
An effective defense starts with a detailed case review. In Arlington County General District Court, prosecutors must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed marijuana. A common defense challenges the legality of the stop or search that led to the discovery. If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights, the evidence may be suppressed, skilled to a dismissal. Another strategy involves questioning the chain of custody of the alleged substance or challenging the accuracy of field tests. For eligible first-time offenders, Virginia’s first offender statute (§ 18.2-251) may allow for dismissal upon completion of terms like community service and drug education.
- Case Evaluation: Immediately after an arrest, consult with a cannabis arrest lawyer Arlington County to review the charging documents and police report for constitutional violations or procedural errors.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file a motion to suppress evidence if the search was conducted without a warrant or probable cause.
- Negotiation: Before your court date at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, diversion program, or dismissal.
- Trial Preparation: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare for a bench trial in General District Court, challenging the prosecution’s evidence and witnesses.
- Appeal or Expungement: If convicted, you may appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial. If the case is dismissed, you can later petition for expungement to clear your record.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Arlington
In Arlington County, simple marijuana possession (one ounce or less) is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of certain rights |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (varies by quantity) | 1-40 years | Varies | 6-month suspension | Severe felony penalties |
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 every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a marijuana charge can impact your job, education, and future. Our approach is to provide a strong, case-specific defense focused on protecting your rights and seeking the best possible resolution.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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 Arlington County
Our team has a record of achieving positive outcomes for clients in Arlington County. We have 21 documented results in this jurisdiction, including 11 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 10 charges reduced or amended. For example, we have secured nolle prosequi (dismissals) for charges like destruction of property and fare evasion in Arlington County General District Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides a unique advantage in cases involving technical or financial evidence.
Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Arlington County
Our Arlington location is minutes from the Arlington County General District Court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd. We serve clients in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Arlington County, VA?
It depends on the amount. Possession of one ounce or less is a misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Arlington County?
Yes, if the charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecution enters a nolle prosequi. Virginia law (§ 19.2-392.2) allows expungement petitions to be filed in Arlington County Circuit Court after such an outcome.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a marijuana possession conviction?
Yes. A conviction for any drug offense under Virginia law, including simple possession, triggers a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension by the DMV, separate from any court penalty.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in Arlington?
Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with police. Contact a cannabis arrest lawyer Arlington County as soon as possible to begin building your defense and protect your rights.
What is the first offender program for marijuana in Virginia?
Virginia’s first offender statute (§ 18.2-251) may allow for deferred disposition. Upon completion of terms like community service and drug education, the charge can be dismissed. Eligibility depends on your record and the specifics of your case.
If you are facing a marijuana charge, securing representation from an experienced cannabis possession lawyer Arlington County is a critical first step. The attorneys at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. are available 24/7 to discuss your case. Learn more about our Virginia criminal defense practice. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Alexandria and with related charges such as DUI.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.