Marijuana Possession Lawyer Arlington County, VA
Virginia’s marijuana possession laws changed significantly in 2021, but criminal charges still apply to possession above the legal limit and to certain public conduct. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends individuals facing marijuana possession allegations in Arlington County, Virginia. Whether the charge is a misdemeanor quantity or a felony amount, the outcome can impact your record, employment, and future opportunities. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring former-prosecutor insight and a practical understanding of how Arlington County courts apply Virginia’s cannabis statutes. If you have been charged with marijuana possession in Arlington County, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Marijuana Possession Means in Arlington County, Virginia
Under Va. Code § 4.1-1100 et seq., adults 21 and older may legally possess up to one ounce of marijuana for personal use. However, possession of more than one ounce remains subject to enforcement. A person possessing between one and four ounces faces a civil penalty. Possession of more than four ounces is a criminal offense, and possession with intent to distribute may be prosecuted as a felony. Public consumption of marijuana is also prohibited, and driving while impaired by cannabis is treated under Virginia’s DUI laws.
Arlington County processes marijuana possession cases through two courts. Misdemeanor charges—including simple possession above four ounces—are heard in the Arlington County General District Court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400. Felony-level possession or distribution charges proceed through the Arlington County Circuit Court. The Arlington County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases, and a conviction can result in jail time, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record. Because the line between a civil violation and a criminal charge turns on the weight of the marijuana, reliable representation is critical at the earliest stage.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Marijuana Possession Cases
Every marijuana possession case in Arlington County starts with a careful review of the circumstances surrounding the stop, search, and seizure. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine whether law enforcement had probable cause to search, whether the chain of custody for the seized substance is reliable, and whether the tested weight accurately supports the charge. When procedural issues are identified, the defense may move to suppress evidence or seek a reduction of the charge. Virginia law also provides first-offender and deferred-disposition opportunities under Va. Code § 18.2-251, which can allow a defendant who completes court-ordered conditions to earn a dismissal.
Because the firm’s team includes a former prosecutor and a former Virginia State Trooper now Of Counsel, the firm brings a dual perspective to every case—understanding both how the prosecution builds its case and how traffic stops and drug investigations are conducted. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with the judges and procedures of the Arlington County General District Court and Circuit Court, and they negotiate with prosecutors from a position of experience. The goal in every matter is to pursue a resolution that protects the client’s record and minimizes the disruption to their life.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and he maintains a hands-on role in the firm’s criminal practice. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
Mr. Sris is supported by a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring decades of additional courtroom, law enforcement, and trial experience. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. In Arlington County criminal matters, the firm has documented 21 case results, including 11 dismissals or not-guilty findings and 10 charge reductions—a favorable outcome in all reported instances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for marijuana possession over four ounces in Arlington County?
Possession of more than four ounces of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Virginia law, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine. Misdemeanor cases are heard in the Arlington County General District Court. The actual sentence depends on factors such as prior record, the circumstances of the stop, and whether the defendant is eligible for a first-offender deferred disposition. When the quantity is alleged to be for distribution, the charge may be a felony with significantly more severe consequences.
Can a marijuana possession charge be expunged in Arlington County?
Virginia law permits expungement when a marijuana possession charge results in an acquittal, a nolle prosequi, or a dismissal. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, a person who was arrested but not convicted may petition the Arlington County Circuit Court to remove the police and court records related to the charge. A conviction cannot be expunged under this statute, though record-sealing reforms may apply to certain outcomes. An attorney can explain whether your specific disposition qualifies.
What should I do if I am facing marijuana possession charges in Arlington County?
Contact an attorney immediately and do not discuss the facts of your case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any relevant documents, text messages, or other evidence. Even a misdemeanor possession charge can create a criminal record that appears on background checks for employment, housing, and licensing. Early involvement of counsel helps protect your rights and may open doors to diversion or charge-reduction opportunities.
How does bail work for marijuana possession in Arlington County?
After arrest, a magistrate sets bond based on the offense, the individual’s criminal history, and community ties. For many first-offense marijuana possession charges, the magistrate may release the defendant on personal recognizance without requiring payment. A secured bond may be set in felony cases or for defendants with prior failures to appear. If bond is excessive, an attorney can request a bond-review hearing in the Arlington County General District Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a marijuana possession charge in Arlington County?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer, but proceeding without one exposes you to the full weight of a criminal prosecution that can result in jail time and a lasting record. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can challenge the evidence, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and identify procedural violations that a self-represented defendant may overlook. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team handle marijuana possession cases in Arlington County and can be reached at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between the General District Court and the Circuit Court in Arlington County?
The Arlington County General District Court hears misdemeanor marijuana possession trials and felony preliminary hearings, while the Arlington County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from the General District Court. If a defendant is convicted in General District Court, they have an automatic right to appeal to the Circuit Court for a new trial. Cases involving felony possession with intent to distribute begin in General District Court for a preliminary hearing and then proceed to Circuit Court for trial.
For further information or to discuss your case, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.