Cannabis Possession Lawyer Augusta County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Augusta County 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. has 13 documented case results in Augusta County. A skilled cannabis possession lawyer Augusta County can challenge the evidence and seek alternatives like first-offender dismissal.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia law defines marijuana possession as knowingly possessing any amount of the substance without a valid prescription. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, applies statewide, including in Augusta County. A cannabis arrest lawyer Augusta County understands that even a first offense creates a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides defense grounded in this specific statute.
Official Virginia Law & Court Resources
Your case will be governed by state law and heard in the local court. For the official text of the possession statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). All misdemeanor trials occur at the Augusta County General District Court website at 6 East Johnson Street, Staunton.
Local Defense Strategy for Augusta County
In Augusta County, prosecutors may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 18.2-251 for eligible defendants, which can lead to dismissal. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Augusta County will examine the legality of the stop, search, and seizure, as constitutional violations are a common defense. The local procedural fact is that the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Augusta County handles these prosecutions, and outcomes often depend on your prior record and the specific facts.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will file a motion for discovery to review the prosecution’s evidence.
- We will challenge any procedural errors in the stop or search that led to the charge.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- If necessary, prepare for and present a defense at trial in Augusta County General District Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Augusta County
In Augusta County, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a driver’s license suspension of six months.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Criminal record, possible drug education |
| Simple Possession (Subsequent) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Increased likelihood of jail time |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Severe felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Augusta County Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach is direct: we analyze the specific details of your arrest to build the strongest possible defense.
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 in Augusta County
Our firm has 13 total documented case results across all practice areas in Augusta County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for those matters. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. For example, our team has successfully secured dismissals for charges like “No Registration Card/License in Possession” in other Virginia jurisdictions through motions to suppress or negotiations with prosecutors. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Contact Our Augusta County Cannabis Possession Lawyers
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Augusta County courts. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. If you need a cannabis possession lawyer near Augusta County or near Staunton, we serve the communities of Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
FAQs: Marijuana Charges in Augusta County, VA
Is marijuana possession a felony in Augusta County, Virginia?
No. Simple possession of marijuana for personal use is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. However, possession with intent to distribute is a felony.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Augusta County?
It depends. Virginia law allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. If you complete a first-offender program resulting in dismissal, you may petition for expungement in Augusta County Circuit Court.
What is the penalty for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
The penalty for a first-time simple possession charge is up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a mandatory 6-month driver’s license suspension. However, a cannabis arrest lawyer Augusta County can often seek alternatives like dismissal through a first-offender program.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor marijuana charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries jail time and creates a permanent record. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Augusta County can protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and seek the best possible outcome to avoid these consequences.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a marijuana possession conviction?
Yes. A conviction for any drug offense under Va. Code § 18.2-250 triggers a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension by the DMV, separate from any court penalty. A cannabis possession lawyer Augusta County may argue for a restricted license for work purposes.