Cannabis Possession Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Henrico 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 a strong defense for cannabis charges in Henrico County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County 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. Since 2021, Virginia has decriminalized simple possession for adults, making it a civil offense punishable by a fine. However, possession of any amount by a minor or possession in certain contexts (like a school zone) remains a criminal misdemeanor. The legal field is complex, and an experienced cannabis possession lawyer Henrico County can clarify how these laws apply to your specific case.
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 for Henrico County can be found on the Henrico County General District Court website.
Handling a Cannabis Charge in Henrico County
If you are arrested for cannabis possession in Henrico County, your case will begin at the Henrico County General District Court located at 4301 East Parham Road. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Henrico County prosecutes these cases. For first-time offenders, the court may offer a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. A skilled cannabis arrest lawyer Henrico County will immediately review the circumstances of your stop and search, as violations of your Fourth Amendment rights can lead to evidence suppression and case dismissal.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all police reports, lab results, and body camera footage.
- Your cannabis possession lawyer Henrico County will assess the legality of the search and seizure and file any necessary motions to suppress evidence.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable resolution, such as a reduction, diversion program, or dismissal.
- If no favorable plea is offered, prepare for and proceed to a bench trial in General District Court.
Potential Penalties for Cannabis Possession in Virginia
In Henrico County, simple marijuana possession carries penalties ranging from a fine to jail time, with severity increasing for subsequent offenses or larger amounts.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (Adult, 1st Offense) | Civil Violation | None | Up to $25 | None | Criminal record possible for minors |
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (Subsequent) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession by Minor (any amount) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Suspension | Mandatory drug education |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Jury can reduce punishment to up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Our Experience in Henrico County Criminal 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 results in Henrico County, including favorable outcomes for drug-related charges. Our team understands the local court procedures and the approach of the Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor provides critical insight into how the other side builds a case, which we use to develop an effective defense strategy for your cannabis possession 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 and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients facing criminal charges in Virginia. In Henrico County, our strategic defense has led to dismissals, reductions, and successful completions of diversion programs for clients. For instance, our team, including experienced attorney Mr. Sris, has successfully argued motions to suppress evidence in drug possession cases, skilled to charges being dropped. We approach each case with a focus on protecting your rights, your record, and your future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Henrico County Cannabis Possession Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients throughout Henrico County, including Glen Allen, Short Pump, and Innsbrook. We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. If you need a cannabis possession lawyer near Henrico County General District Court, we are here to help.
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
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Cannabis Possession in Henrico County
Is marijuana possession a felony in Henrico County, VA?
It depends on the amount. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by 1-10 years in prison. Possession of one ounce or less by an adult is a civil violation, but subsequent offenses or possession by a minor are misdemeanors. A cannabis possession lawyer Henrico County can evaluate the specifics of your charge.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (dropped charges) under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. If you complete a first offender program and your charge is dismissed, you may petition the Henrico County Circuit Court for expungement. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
What should I do if I’m arrested for cannabis possession in Henrico County?
First, remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with law enforcement. Contact a cannabis arrest lawyer Henrico County as soon as possible. Your attorney will guide you through the arraignment process at Henrico County General District Court, review the evidence against you, and begin building your defense strategy.
What are the penalties for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
For an adult’s first offense of possessing one ounce or less, the penalty is a civil fine of up to $25. However, if it’s a second offense, or if you are a minor, it becomes a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. Other factors, like possession in a school zone, increase penalties.
How can a lawyer help with a marijuana charge?
A marijuana charge defense lawyer Henrico County can challenge the legality of the traffic stop or search that led to your arrest, potentially getting evidence thrown out. They can negotiate for a reduction or diversion program, and represent you at trial. Their knowledge of local court procedures and prosecutors is crucial for the best possible outcome.
For more information on related legal matters, see our pages on Virginia criminal defense, Chesterfield County criminal defense, and Henrico County DUI defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.