Cannabis Possession Lawyer Greene County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple possession of marijuana in Greene 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. A cannabis possession lawyer Greene County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the legality of the search, evidence handling, and explore first-offender dismissal options.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law classifies simple possession of marijuana (one ounce or less) as a Class 1 misdemeanor for a first offense, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 5 felony, carrying 1-10 years in prison. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, also prohibits possession with intent to distribute, which carries significantly harsher penalties. A cannabis arrest lawyer Greene County can explain how these charges apply to your specific situation.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in cases involving complex evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found at the Greene County General District Court website.
Handling a Marijuana Charge in Greene County
Prosecutors in Greene County General District Court handle numerous marijuana possession cases. A strong defense often focuses on the legality of the traffic stop or search that led to the discovery. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. If law enforcement lacked probable cause or a valid warrant, the evidence may be suppressed, skilled to a dismissal.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your cannabis possession lawyer Greene County will file a motion for discovery to review all police reports, lab results, and body camera footage.
- Your attorney will assess grounds to file a motion to suppress evidence if the search was unconstitutional.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a first-offender program.
- Prepare for trial in Greene County General District Court if a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Greene County
In Greene County, a first-offense marijuana possession charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties of up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (1st offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (2nd+ offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Enhanced penalties, mandatory minimums may apply |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Felony record, loss of firearm rights, ineligibility for certain federal benefits |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Greene County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds a case. We have a documented record of defending clients in Greene County. Our approach involves a meticulous review of every detail, from the initial police stop to the chain of custody for the alleged substance.
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 record in Greene County. In one case, a charge was taken under advisement and dismissed upon the client’s completion of community service. In another, a charge was nolle prossed (dropped) by the prosecution. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney with a multi-state practice, oversees complex defense strategies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Greene County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Greene County General District Court (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville). We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33, serving communities like Stanardsville and Ruckersville. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
FAQs: Marijuana Charge Defense in Greene County
What is the penalty for a first-time marijuana possession charge in Greene County?
Yes, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor. A first offense for possessing one ounce or less of marijuana in Greene County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. The maximum penalty is up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. A skilled marijuana charge defense lawyer Greene County can often seek alternative resolutions like first-offender programs.
Can a marijuana possession charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 for charges that result in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi (dropped by prosecutor). If you complete a first-offender program resulting in dismissal, you may petition the Greene County Circuit Court to expunge the record. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a marijuana possession charge?
Possibly. Va. Code § 18.2-259.1 mandates a six-month driver’s license suspension for any drug conviction, including misdemeanor marijuana possession. A cannabis arrest lawyer Greene County may negotiate to avoid a conviction or seek a restricted license for work purposes.
What’s the difference between possession and possession with intent to distribute?
The key difference is intent. Possession is for personal use. Intent to distribute (PWID) is a felony based on factors like quantity, packaging, scales, or large amounts of cash. A cannabis possession lawyer Greene County challenges the evidence of intent, which is often circumstantial.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple possession charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries jail time, a fine, a driver’s license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Greene County knows the local court procedures, can challenge the evidence, and seek the best possible outcome to protect your future.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Greene County DUI Lawyer services.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.