Cannabis Possession Lawyer Manassas Park — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Manassas Park 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. A cannabis possession lawyer Manassas Park from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the evidence and seek dismissal or a first-offender program.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law strictly prohibits the possession of marijuana. Simple possession of up to one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 5 felony, carrying 1-10 years in prison. The law makes no distinction between medical and recreational use for possession charges. The statute also prohibits possession with intent to distribute, which carries severe felony penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas Park General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Manassas Park cases is available at the Manassas Park General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Marijuana Charge
Manassas Park General District Court handles all misdemeanor marijuana possession trials. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the substance. A cannabis arrest lawyer Manassas Park can identify weaknesses, such as illegal search and seizure or problems with the chain of custody for the evidence. The court at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110 serves Manassas Park.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or alternative disposition.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a bench trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing or Dismissal: If convicted, the court imposes sentence. If a first-offender program is completed, the charge is dismissed.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Manassas Park
In Manassas Park, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a 6-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 mandatory suspension | Criminal record, possible drug testing |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (varies by amount) | 5-40 years possible | Substantial fines | 6-month mandatory suspension | Severe felony penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Manassas Park Courts
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 a documented record of 3 case results in Manassas Park across all practice areas. Our team understands the local court procedures and works to protect your rights and 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 achieved favorable outcomes in drug-related cases. For example, in a Bedford County case involving underage alcohol possession, the charge was taken under advisement and dismissed upon completion of community service. In Essex County, a charge of No Registration Card/License in Possession was dismissed outright. In Fairfax County, a similar charge was nolle prosequi (dropped by the prosecutor).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Manassas Park
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas Park courts (9311 Lee Avenue). We are accessible via Route 28 and I-66. We provide legal representation to individuals in Manassas Park and surrounding communities.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Manassas Park, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas Park 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 are heard at Manassas Park General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Manassas Park, 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 Manassas Park Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify for dismissal through a deferred disposition, which can then be expunged.
How does bail work in Manassas Park, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Manassas Park. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Manassas Park General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a marijuana charge in Manassas Park?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor marijuana charge carries up to 12 months in jail, a fine, and a mandatory 6-month driver’s license suspension. It creates a permanent criminal record. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Manassas Park can challenge the stop, search, or evidence to seek dismissal or a favorable plea.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Manassas Park?
Manassas Park General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Manassas Park 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.
Related Practice Areas: Manassas Park DUI Lawyer | Manassas Park Family Lawyer
Nearby Locations: Fairfax Criminal Lawyer | Prince William Criminal Lawyer
State Hub: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.