Cannabis Possession Lawyer Prince William County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Prince William County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A cannabis possession lawyer Prince William County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the evidence and seek dismissal or a first-offender program.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law classifies simple possession of marijuana (cannabis) as a criminal offense. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, which defines possession of marijuana as knowingly possessing the substance without a valid prescription. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute, with the latter carrying more severe penalties. Even a first-time charge can result in a permanent criminal record, impacting employment, housing, and educational opportunities. A cannabis arrest lawyer Prince William County can explain how recent legislative changes may affect your specific case.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filing information for Prince William County can be found on the Prince William County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Marijuana Charge
Marijuana possession cases in Prince William County begin at the General District Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue in Manassas. Prosecutors in this court frequently offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for eligible defendants. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Prince William County can handle this local process to seek the best possible outcome.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a possession charge.
- Attend your arraignment hearing at Prince William County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery, which includes the police report and lab analysis.
- File pre-trial motions to challenge the legality of the stop, search, or seizure.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, reduction, or diversion program.
- Proceed to trial if a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached.
Penalties for Cannabis Possession in Prince William County
In Prince William County, simple possession of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, plus a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Subsequent Possession | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Increased likelihood of jail time |
| Possession > 1 oz but < 1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Drug Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented record of handling drug possession cases, focusing on protecting our clients’ futures from the lasting consequences of a conviction.
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. In one instance, a charge for possession of a controlled substance was dismissed after our attorney successfully challenged the legality of the traffic stop. In another, a client facing a first-offense marijuana possession charge completed a first-offender program resulting in a full dismissal.
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 detailed evidence analysis.
Contact Our Prince William County Cannabis Possession Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts. We are a cannabis possession lawyer Prince William County residents can consult near Manassas and Woodbridge. We serve the communities of Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct
Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession still a crime in Virginia?
Yes. While Virginia has decriminalized simple possession of small amounts for adults, it remains a civil violation. Possession of more than one ounce is a criminal offense, and possession of any amount in certain circumstances (like in a vehicle) can lead to charges. A cannabis possession lawyer Prince William County can clarify how the law applies to your situation.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged in Prince William County?
It depends. Virginia law allows expungement for charges that result in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi (when the prosecutor drops the charge). If you are convicted, expungement is generally not available. A first-offender dismissal may be eligible. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Prince William County can file the necessary petition in Prince William County Circuit Court if you qualify.
What should I do if I’m arrested for cannabis possession?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with law enforcement. Contact a cannabis arrest lawyer Prince William County as soon as possible to begin building your defense. An attorney can advise you on your rights and the best steps to take before your court date at the Prince William County General District Court.
Will I go to jail for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
Not necessarily. For a first-time simple possession charge, jail time is often avoidable, especially with an attorney. Prosecutors may offer diversion programs that result in dismissal upon completion. However, the charge carries a possible 12-month jail sentence, so having a lawyer is essential to fight for an alternative outcome.
How can a lawyer help with my marijuana case?
A lawyer can challenge the stop, search, and seizure that led to the arrest. They can negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced charge or diversion program. They ensure your rights are protected at every stage and can take your case to trial if necessary. An experienced attorney understands the local court procedures and how to present the strongest defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, we are also a DUI lawyer in Prince William County.