Cannabis Possession Lawyer Warren County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Warren 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 at Warren County General District Court (1 East Main Street, Front Royal).
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical cannabis certificate. Simple possession of up to one ounce by an adult 21 or older is a civil violation punishable by a $25 fine. However, possession of more than one ounce, possession by a minor, or possession with intent to distribute remains a criminal offense. For a first offense of simple possession of more than one ounce, the charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor. A second or subsequent offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a mandatory minimum fine of $250. Possession with intent to distribute is a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Warren 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). Court information and procedures can be found on the Warren County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Marijuana Charge
If you are charged with marijuana possession in Warren County, your case will begin at the Warren County General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. For first-time offenders, the court may consider a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. An experienced cannabis arrest lawyer Warren County can handle this process.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charge and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated during the search or arrest.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss the case with the prosecutor, seeking a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a diversion program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge. If an agreement is reached, the court will accept the plea and impose the agreed-upon sentence.
- Sentencing: If found guilty or if you plead guilty, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include jail, fines, probation, and driver’s license suspension.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a guilty finding from General District Court to the Warren County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Marijuana Charges
In Warren County, marijuana possession penalties range from a $25 civil fine to felony imprisonment, depending on the amount and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (Adult 21+) | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| 1st Offense Possession > 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| 2nd+ Offense Possession > 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | $250 min, up to $500 | 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in 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 handling criminal charges across Virginia. Our approach is informed by a deep understanding of both prosecution and defense strategies.
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 firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes for clients. In Warren County, we have secured results in criminal cases. Our team, which includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, works to protect clients’ rights and futures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Warren County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Warren County courts in Front Royal. We provide representation for individuals in Front Royal, Linden, and surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
No, simple possession of marijuana is not a felony for a first offense. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, possession with intent to distribute is a felony.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged in Warren County?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A first-offense possession charge that is dismissed after completing a first offender program may be eligible for expungement. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a marijuana charge?
Yes, a conviction for possession of a controlled substance, including marijuana, results in a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension in Virginia under Va. Code § 18.2-259.1. A restricted license for limited purposes may be available.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in Warren County?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with law enforcement. Contact a cannabis possession lawyer Warren County as soon as possible to begin building your defense. Our team is available 24/7 at (888) 437-7747.
What defenses are available for a marijuana charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search or seizure, lack of knowledge or possession, proving the substance was not marijuana, or eligibility for a first offender diversion program. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Warren County can evaluate the specific facts of your case.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI defense in Warren County and criminal defense in nearby Shenandoah County. For a broader overview of our services, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.