Cannabis Possession Lawyer in King William County, Virginia
Simple marijuana possession in King William 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 conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced defense for cannabis possession charges at the King William County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | King William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law classifies simple possession of marijuana (cannabis) as a misdemeanor offense. The specific statute, Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, defines the elements of the crime 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. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute, which carries significantly harsher penalties. Understanding these distinctions is critical for building an effective defense strategy with a skilled cannabis possession lawyer King William County.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and local rules are managed by the King William County General District Court.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will review the evidence, including the legality of any search and seizure.
- We will explore all defense options, from challenging the evidence to negotiating for a first-offender disposition.
- If necessary, we will prepare for and represent you at trial in King William County General District Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in King William County
In King William County, simple possession of marijuana (one ounce or less) is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz & <1 lb | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Defense Experience
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local court procedures and prosecution strategies in King William County, which is essential for building an effective defense against cannabis charges.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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 in criminal cases. While every case is unique, our strategic approach aims for the best possible result, whether that is dismissal, reduction of charges, or an alternative disposition. For instance, we have successfully secured dismissals for clients facing charges like “NO REG. CARD/LIC IN POSSESSION” in various Virginia courts through motions or negotiations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our King William County Cannabis Possession Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients in King William County. We are accessible via Route 30, Route 360, and Route 33. We provide a cannabis possession lawyer near King William, West Point, and Aylett.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in King William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King William County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at King William County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in King William County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in King William County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify for dismissal through a first-offender program, which can then make the record eligible for expungement.
How does bail work in King William County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in King William County. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to King William County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in King William County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in King William County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors like cannabis possession carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A marijuana charge defense lawyer King William County can protect your rights and work toward the best outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in King William County?
King William County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. King William County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, our firm provides representation for DUI and family law matters in King William County.
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.