Cannabis Possession Lawyer Prince William County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A simple marijuana possession charge in Prince William County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for these charges. A cannabis possession lawyer Prince William County from our firm can challenge the evidence and seek alternatives to conviction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law classifies simple possession of marijuana (one ounce or less) as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, outlines the penalties and provides a path for first offenders. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 5 felony. The law also prohibits possession with intent to distribute, which carries much more severe penalties. Understanding the specific charge you face is the first step in building a defense.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for Prince William County are handled at the Prince William County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Marijuana Charge
In Prince William County, marijuana possession cases begin at the General District Court. Prosecutors there may offer first-time offenders a deferred disposition under Va. Code § 18.2-251. This allows for dismissal upon completing terms like community service. A cannabis arrest lawyer Prince William County can negotiate for this outcome. The court at 9311 Lee Avenue in Manassas is where these hearings occur.
- Receive a summons or be arrested and released on bond.
- Attend your arraignment hearing at Prince William County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery (police reports, lab results) and file pre-trial motions if needed.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or first-offender program.
- Proceed to a bench trial in GDC if no agreement is reached, preserving the right to appeal to Circuit Court.
- If convicted, explore expungement eligibility after the waiting period.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Prince William County
In Prince William County, simple marijuana possession (one ounce or less) is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine up to $500, with a mandatory minimum $250 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession of Marijuana (≤ 1 oz) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 (min $250) | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Possession of Marijuana (> 1 oz) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm privileges |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (varies by weight) | 5-40 years possible | Substantial fines | Mandatory suspension | Severe felony penalties, mandatory minimums may apply |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Prince William County 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 results in Prince William County, including cases involving drug charges. Our team understands the local court procedures and the approach of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. We use this knowledge to build case-specific defense strategies for our clients.
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 achieved favorable outcomes in drug possession cases across Virginia. For example, we have secured dismissals for clients charged with possession of controlled substances where the search and seizure was successfully challenged. In other cases, we have negotiated for first-offender dispositions that resulted in charges being dismissed after our clients completed court-ordered programs. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Prince William County Cannabis Defense Lawyer Near Me
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts in Manassas. We are accessible via I-66 and Route 28. If you need a marijuana charge defense lawyer Prince William County, we are here to help. We serve communities throughout the county, including Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, and Gainesville.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession still a crime in Virginia?
Yes. While simple possession of one ounce or less by adults is a civil penalty under state law, it remains a Class 1 misdemeanor under Virginia Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. Local ordinances may differ, and possession of more than one ounce is a felony.
Can I get a first-time offender program for marijuana possession in Prince William County?
It depends. The court may offer a deferred disposition under Va. Code § 18.2-251 for first-time simple possession charges. Successfully completing terms like community service and drug education can lead to dismissal. A cannabis arrest lawyer Prince William County can petition the court for this option.
Will a marijuana charge affect my driver’s license?
Yes. A conviction for any drug offense, including marijuana possession, triggers an automatic 6-month driver’s license suspension by the Virginia DMV under Va. Code § 18.2-259.1. A restricted license for limited purposes may be available.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with police. Contact a cannabis possession lawyer Prince William County as soon as possible. An attorney can advise you on your rights, help secure your release, and begin building your defense strategy.
Can a marijuana possession charge be expunged?
Yes, in certain situations. If your charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecution enters a nolle prosequi, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A conviction for simple possession is generally not eligible for expungement.
Related Legal Help in Prince William County
If you are facing other charges, our firm can help. We also handle DUI defense in Prince William County and criminal defense in Fairfax County. For a full overview of our services, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.