Cannabis Possession Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
A cannabis possession charge in Manassas is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for these charges at the Manassas General District Court. Our team includes former prosecutors with deep knowledge of local procedures.
Virginia Law on Cannabis Possession
In Virginia, simple possession of marijuana (cannabis) is a criminal misdemeanor. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of one ounce or less is a civil violation with a $25 fine. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Possession of one pound or more is a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s drug laws, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2, Chapter 7). Court information for Manassas cases can be found on the Manassas General District Court official website.
Manassas Court Process for Cannabis Charges
If you are charged with cannabis possession in Manassas, your case will begin at the Manassas General District Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. For first-time offenders, the court may offer a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. An experienced cannabis arrest lawyer Manassas can handle this process, challenge the legality of the search, or negotiate for a reduced charge.
- Receive a summons or be arrested and taken before a magistrate.
- Attend your arraignment at Manassas GDC to hear the formal charge and enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review police reports and file any pre-trial motions to suppress evidence.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, reduction, or diversion program.
- Proceed to a bench trial in GDC if no agreement is reached, preserving your right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- If convicted, explore expungement eligibility after any waiting period.
Penalties for Cannabis Possession in Manassas
In Manassas, possession of more than one ounce of cannabis is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, with higher penalties for subsequent offenses or possession near a school.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz & <1 lb (1st offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz & <1 lb (2nd+ offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Felony record |
| Possession with intent to distribute | Felony | 10 years to life | Varies | Suspension | Felony record, mandatory minimums |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Manassas Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm-wide experience includes over 120 combined years in practice and more than 4,739 documented case results. We have a strong record of achieving dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions for clients facing drug charges in Northern Virginia courts. Our team understands the specific procedures and tendencies of the Manassas General District Court.
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
Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. For example, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges like “No Registration Card/License in Possession” in Fairfax County GDC. In Bedford County, we achieved a dismissal upon completion of community service for an underage alcohol possession charge. While every case is unique, our approach focuses on meticulous review of evidence and procedural details.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Cannabis Possession Defense Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts. We are your local cannabis possession lawyer Manassas residents can rely on, also serving neighborhoods throughout the area. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is simple possession of marijuana still a crime in Manassas, VA?
It depends. Possession of one ounce or less is a civil violation with a $25 fine, not a crime. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by jail time. The amount and circumstances determine the charge.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Manassas?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals (nolle prosequi), and cases where charges were otherwise dropped. A conviction for possession generally cannot be expunged. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Manassas can file the petition in Manassas Circuit Court if you are eligible.
What is the penalty for a first-time marijuana possession charge in Manassas?
For a first offense of possessing more than one ounce but less than one pound, the penalty is up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. The court often suspives the jail time and may offer a first offender program that leads to dismissal after completion of terms like community service.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a cannabis possession charge?
Possibly. Va. Code § 18.2-259.1 mandates a six-month driver’s license suspension for any drug conviction, including misdemeanor marijuana possession. However, a restricted license for work and other necessities may be available. An attorney can petition the court for this restriction.
Should I hire a lawyer for a misdemeanor marijuana charge in Manassas?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor charge creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and education. A skilled cannabis arrest lawyer Manassas can seek a dismissal, explore diversion programs, or negotiate to avoid a conviction. The Manassas Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases vigorously.
What defenses are available against a cannabis possession charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the stop or search (Fourth Amendment violation), arguing the substance was not in your “possession” or control, questioning the lab analysis, or proving the amount was within the legal civil limit. An attorney like Mr. Sris, with a background as a former prosecutor, can identify the best strategy.
Related Pages: For other legal issues in Manassas, see our pages on DUI Defense and Reckless Driving. For statewide information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub. We also serve neighboring areas like Fairfax and Prince William 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.