Cannabis Possession Lawyer Hanover County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Hanover County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A cannabis possession lawyer Hanover County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the legality of the search, the substance’s identity, or seek a first-offender dismissal.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the knowing or intentional possession of marijuana without a valid prescription. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, defines the offense and its penalties. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of one pound or more is a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Hanover County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Hanover County
Prosecutors at Hanover County General District Court must prove you knowingly possessed a controlled substance. A common defense is challenging the legality of the traffic stop or search that led to the discovery. Police must have probable cause or your consent to search your vehicle.
- Case Review: A cannabis arrest lawyer Hanover County will obtain police reports and bodycam footage to assess the stop and search.
- Motion to Suppress: If the search violated your Fourth Amendment rights, file a motion to suppress the evidence, which can lead to case dismissal.
- Substance Analysis: Demand lab testing to confirm the substance is illegal marijuana and not legal hemp (CBD).
- Negotiation or Trial: Negotiate for a reduction, first-offender program, or prepare for trial to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Hanover County
In Hanover County, simple possession of one ounce or less of marijuana is punishable by a civil penalty of $25. Possession of more than one ounce is a criminal misdemeanor.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz & < 1 lb | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Or in the discretion of the jury, confinement in jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into both sides of a case. We have documented case results across Virginia, including favorable outcomes in drug possession cases.
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 of achieving favorable results for clients. In one case, a charge of Underage Alcohol Possession in Bedford County was taken under advisement and dismissed upon completion of community service. In another, a charge of No Registration Card/License in Possession in Essex County was dismissed outright.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Hanover County
Our Richmond location serves clients in Hanover County, Mechanicsville, Ashland, and Atlee. We are accessible via I-95 and Route 301. If you need a marijuana charge defense lawyer Hanover County, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation. Meetings are by appointment only at our Richmond office.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
It depends. Possession of one ounce or less is a civil penalty. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of one pound or more is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged in Hanover County?
Yes, if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or the prosecutor entered a nolle prosequi. Virginia law (Va. Code § 19.2-392.2) allows expungement for these outcomes. Most convictions cannot be expunged, making a strong defense with a cannabis possession lawyer Hanover County critical.
What is the first offender program for marijuana in Virginia?
Virginia’s first offender program, under Va. Code § 18.2-251, allows eligible first-time drug offenders to have charges dismissed upon successful completion of probation, drug education, and community service. A cannabis arrest lawyer Hanover County can advise if you qualify.
Do police need a warrant to search my car for marijuana?
Not always. Police need probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. The smell of marijuana alone can establish probable cause for a vehicle search in Virginia. An attorney can challenge whether probable cause truly existed.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in Hanover County?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case or consent to any searches. Contact a cannabis possession lawyer Hanover County from our firm 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 to protect your rights and begin building your defense.
Related Pages: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer | Criminal Defense Lawyer Henrico County | DUI Lawyer Hanover County
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.