Marijuana Possession Lawyer Prince George County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Prince George County 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 these charges at the Prince George County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Under Virginia law, simple possession of marijuana (one ounce or less) by an adult 21 or older is a civil violation punishable by a $25 fine. However, possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of one pound or more is a felony. For individuals under 21, any possession remains a criminal offense. The specific statute governing these offenses is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Prince George County understands the nuances between these classifications and the procedural steps at the Prince George County General District Court.
- Secure legal representation immediately after a marijuana arrest.
- Your attorney will file a notice of appearance with the Prince George County General District Court.
- Your lawyer will review the police report and evidence for constitutional violations.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable plea or diversion program.
- Prepare for trial or a motion to suppress if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- If convicted, file an appeal to the Prince George County Circuit Court within 10 days.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Prince George County
In Prince George County, marijuana possession penalties range from a $25 civil fine to felony imprisonment, depending on the amount and the defendant’s age.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (Adult 21+) | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Felony record |
| Possession (Under 21) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Criminal record, driver’s license suspension |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Drug Charges
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we aggressively defend clients in Prince George County and across Virginia. For example, our team, including former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, has successfully negotiated charges like Distribution of Marijuana down to simple possession, avoiding felony consequences.
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 for Drug Offenses
Our attorneys have a proven track record of achieving positive results in drug-related cases. In Fairfax County, we have successfully amended charges of Distribution/Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana (over half an ounce) down to simple Possession of Marijuana. While results in Prince George County are specific to each case’s facts, our strategic approach focuses on suppressing illegally obtained evidence and leveraging diversion programs. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, oversees complex case strategy, ensuring every client benefits from deep institutional knowledge.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Marijuana Possession Defense in Prince George County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive). We are a local marijuana arrest lawyer Prince George County resource for residents in Prince George and the Hopewell area, accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a first-time marijuana possession charge in Prince George County?
It depends. For adults 21+, possessing one ounce or less is a $25 civil fine. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A skilled marijuana possession lawyer Prince George County can often seek a first-offender dismissal.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Virginia law allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals (including through first-offender programs), and nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in the Prince George County Circuit Court after the case is concluded favorably.
Will I go to jail for a small amount of marijuana?
Not necessarily. For a first offense of simple possession (over one ounce), jail time is often avoidable with an attorney’s help. Prosecutors may offer diversion programs or probation. The risk increases with prior records or larger amounts. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Prince George County can negotiate for alternatives to incarceration.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession?
First, remain silent and request an attorney. Do not discuss the case with police. Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer Prince George County immediately. Your lawyer will guide you through the bond process at the magistrate and begin building your defense for your arraignment at the Prince George County General District Court.
How does a lawyer defend against a marijuana possession charge?
A defense lawyer will scrutinize the stop, search, and seizure for Fourth Amendment violations. They may challenge the reason for the traffic stop, the probable cause for search, or the chain of custody of the evidence. Other defenses include lack of knowledge or ownership of the substance.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing charges in Prince George County, you may also need information on DUI defense or criminal defense in Chesterfield County. For a broader understanding of Virginia criminal law, 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.