Cannabis Possession Lawyer Stafford County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple possession of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Stafford County under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A cannabis possession lawyer Stafford County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending these charges. Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Stafford County General District Court. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Stafford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, the possession of marijuana is defined and penalized under state statute. While laws have evolved, simple possession of marijuana without a valid medical prescription remains a criminal offense. The specific penalties depend on the amount and whether it is a first or subsequent offense. A cannabis arrest lawyer Stafford County can explain how these statutes apply to your specific situation and the potential consequences you face.
For the official state code, see Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Stafford County General District Court website.
- Secure legal representation immediately after a cannabis possession charge.
- Your attorney will review the police report and evidence for constitutional violations.
- File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence if search and seizure was unlawful.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Prepare for trial at Stafford County General District Court if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
In Stafford County, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible driver’s license suspension for up to 6 months | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Simple Possession (Subsequent) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month license suspension | Enhanced penalties, permanent criminal record |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (Class 5 or higher) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory suspension | Severe felony record, federal implications possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex criminal defense. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. “Advocacy Without Borders” is not just our tagline; it reflects our commitment to vigorous defense in Stafford County and across multiple jurisdictions.
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
Our team has achieved documented results in Stafford County. In one case, attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions, successfully argued for the suppression of evidence in a possession case, skilled to a dismissal.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM; emergency evenings/weekends.
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Stafford County courts on 1300 Courthouse Road. As a cannabis possession lawyer near Stafford County, we are accessible via I-95 and Route 1. We provide legal support to residents in Stafford, Aquia Harbour, and Brooke. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — all meetings are by appointment only.
FAQ: Cannabis Possession Defense in Stafford County
Is simple marijuana possession still a crime in Virginia?
Yes. While Virginia decriminalized simple possession of one ounce or less for adults 21+ in 2021, making it a civil penalty, possession of more than one ounce remains a criminal misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of any amount with intent to distribute is a felony.
What are the penalties for a first-time marijuana possession charge in Stafford County?
For a first offense of possessing more than one ounce, the penalty is a Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500. The court also has the discretion to suspend your driver’s license for six months. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Stafford County can work to mitigate these penalties.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Stafford County?
It depends. If the charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecutor enters a nolle prosequi, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 in Stafford County Circuit Court. Most convictions cannot be expunged, highlighting the importance of a strong defense from the start.
What should I do if I am arrested for cannabis possession in Stafford County?
First, remain silent and request an attorney. Do not discuss the case with law enforcement. Then, contact a cannabis arrest lawyer Stafford County immediately. An attorney can advise you on your rights, help secure your release, and begin building your defense strategy for proceedings at the Stafford County General District Court.
How can a lawyer help with a marijuana possession case?
A lawyer can challenge the legality of the stop and search that led to the arrest, negotiate for case dismissal or reduction into a first-offender program, and represent you at trial. An experienced attorney understands local court procedures and prosecutor tendencies, which is crucial for a favorable outcome.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Prince William County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Stafford County DUI Lawyer services.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.