Cannabis Possession Lawyer Lexington — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Lexington is a Class 1 misdemeanor 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 defense for cannabis charges in Lexington General District Court. A cannabis possession lawyer Lexington can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or diversion.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law classifies simple possession of marijuana (cannabis) as a criminal offense. Under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, possession of up to one ounce by an adult is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 5 felony. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute, which carries more severe penalties. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has extensive experience defending these charges across Virginia courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Lexington cases can be found at the Lexington General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Lexington Marijuana Charges
In Lexington, marijuana possession cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court. Prosecutors may offer first-offender diversion programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion. A strong defense often involves challenging the legality of the search or seizure that led to the discovery of the cannabis.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a marijuana possession charge.
- Attend your arraignment at Lexington General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery, which includes police reports and lab analysis.
- File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence if the search was unlawful.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, diversion, or a reduced charge.
- Proceed to trial or accept a plea agreement based on the best available outcome.
Penalties for Cannabis Possession in Lexington
In Lexington, simple marijuana possession carries a penalty of up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense, with increased penalties for subsequent convictions.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (1st offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record, possible drug education |
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (2nd+ offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. With a focus on advocacy without borders, the firm has handled thousands of criminal cases. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
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 Richmond location has documented 14 total case results across all practice areas in the region with a 100% favorable outcome rate. In one case, a charge of “NO REG. CARD/LIC IN POSSESSION” in Essex County GDC was dismissed. In another, a similar charge in Fairfax County GDC was nolle prosequi (dropped by the prosecutor).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including experienced attorney Mr. Sris, works collaboratively to achieve favorable outcomes for clients facing drug charges.
Cannabis Possession Defense Near Lexington, VA
Our Richmond Location serves clients at the Lexington courts (2 South Main Street). We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. If you need a marijuana charge defense lawyer Lexington, we are available for consultations. We serve the Lexington community.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment. By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) is the GDC location.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. For other legal needs in Lexington, consider our services for DUI defense or family law.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.