Cannabis Possession Lawyer Prince George County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A cannabis possession charge in Prince George County is a serious criminal offense under Virginia law. Simple possession of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced defense for those facing marijuana charges.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
In Virginia, the possession of marijuana is governed by Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Simple possession of up to one ounce by a person 21 years or older is a civil violation punishable by a $25 fine. However, possession of more than one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession with intent to distribute (PWID) is a felony with severe penalties. The law distinguishes between personal use and distribution, with factors like quantity, packaging, and scales influencing the charge.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s marijuana laws, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and local rules can be found on the Prince George County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Prince George County
Prince George County prosecutors actively pursue marijuana charges. A key local procedural fact is that first-time offenders may be eligible for a deferred disposition under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion of terms. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County handles these cases at the General District Court located at 6601 Courts Drive.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a cannabis arrest lawyer Prince George County immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain police reports, witness statements, and lab analysis to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence if the search violated your Fourth Amendment rights.
- Negotiation or Trial: Work toward a favorable plea agreement or prepare for a bench trial in General District Court.
- Appeal or Expungement: If convicted, you can appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial. If the case is dismissed, file for expungement.
Penalties for Marijuana Offenses in Prince George County
In Prince George County, marijuana possession penalties range from a civil fine for small amounts to felony imprisonment for distribution. The specific charge determines the potential consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (21+) | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID) | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory suspension | Felony record, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
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 for our clients across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. Mr. Sris’s unique background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in cases involving complex evidence.
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 and Client Outcomes
Our approach to marijuana charge defense is informed by experience. For example, our team has successfully argued for the suppression of evidence in cases where the initial traffic stop was deemed unlawful, skilled to dismissals. In other instances, we have negotiated for first-offender dispositions that result in dismissed charges after our clients complete court-ordered programs.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond-based attorney, Bryan Block, leverages his deep knowledge of central Virginia courts to advocate effectively for clients in Prince George County.
Local Defense Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients in Prince George County and the surrounding Hopewell area. We are familiar with the route to the Prince George County General District Court at 6601 Courts Drive. If you need a marijuana charge defense lawyer Prince George County, we are accessible. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Cannabis Possession in Prince George County
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
No, simple possession of marijuana is not a felony for adults 21 and over. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, possession with intent to distribute (PWID) is a felony offense.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Prince George County?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, you can petition for expungement if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or the prosecutor entered a nolle prosequi. A conviction for possession is generally not eligible for expungement, though a first-offender dismissal may be.
What should I do if I’m arrested for cannabis possession?
Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have consulted with a cannabis arrest lawyer Prince George County. Contact our firm 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 to protect your rights from the start.
How can a lawyer help with a misdemeanor marijuana charge?
A lawyer can challenge the legality of the stop and search, negotiate for a favorable plea or diversion program, and represent you at trial. Even a misdemeanor carries up to a year in jail and creates a permanent criminal record, making skilled defense critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a marijuana charge?
Misdemeanor possession cases are tried in Prince George County General District Court (GDC). If you are charged with a felony like PWID, the preliminary hearing is in GDC, but the jury trial is held in Prince George County Circuit Court. You have a right to appeal a GDC conviction to Circuit Court for a new trial.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI defense in Prince George County and criminal defense in Chesterfield County. For a broader overview of our services, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.