Marijuana Possession Lawyer York County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Marijuana possession in York County 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 conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for marijuana charges at York County General District Court. Our marijuana possession lawyer York County team offers 24/7 consultations.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Simple possession of marijuana is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-250.1. The law prohibits knowingly possessing marijuana without a valid prescription. The amount possessed determines the charge classification. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of one pound or more is a Class 5 felony, carrying 1-10 years in prison. The statute also covers possession with intent to distribute, which carries more severe penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | York County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, review Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the York County General District Court website.
York County Court Process for Marijuana Charges
Marijuana possession cases in York County begin at the York County General District Court located at 300 Ballard Street in Yorktown. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. For first-time offenders, the court may consider a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. An experienced cannabis charge defense lawyer York County can handle these options.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a court date at York County General District Court.
- Appear for arraignment and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Your attorney will review discovery and file any pre-trial motions to suppress evidence.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or first-offender program.
- Proceed to a bench trial before a judge if no acceptable plea agreement is reached.
- If convicted in GDC, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in York County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in York County
In York County, simple possession of one ounce or less of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500, plus a mandatory six-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 suspension | Criminal record, possible drug education |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Drug Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in drug possession cases, including reductions and dismissals. Our approach is grounded in a thorough analysis of the stop, search, and seizure that led to the charge.
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 team has successfully defended clients against drug charges. In past cases, we have negotiated amendments from felony distribution charges down to simple misdemeanor possession, resulting in no jail time. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we secured an amendment from Distribution/Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana to simple Possession of Marijuana.
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 multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Marijuana Possession Defense Near York County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the York County General District Court. We provide representation for residents of Yorktown, Grafton, Tabb, and Seaford. If you need a marijuana arrest lawyer York County, we are accessible via I-64 and Route 17.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
It depends on the amount. Possession of one ounce or less is a misdemeanor. Possession of one pound or more is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. A marijuana possession lawyer York County can review the specifics of your case.
Can I get a first offender program for marijuana in York County?
Yes, first-time offenders may be eligible for a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 in York County General District Court. Successful completion typically results in dismissal of the charge.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a marijuana conviction?
Yes. A conviction for any drug offense, including simple marijuana possession, triggers a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension under Va. Code § 18.2-259.1. A cannabis charge defense lawyer York County may argue for a restricted license for necessary driving.
Can marijuana charges be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement is available for dismissals, acquittals, or nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Charges resolved through a first offender program that result in dismissal are also eligible for expungement.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in York County?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer York County as soon as possible. Do not discuss the case with anyone before speaking with your lawyer. Our firm offers 24/7 consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, consider our York County DUI defense services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.