Marijuana Possession Lawyer Falls Church — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Falls Church is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending cannabis charges in Falls Church General District Court. A marijuana possession lawyer Falls Church can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or alternative sentencing.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical cannabis certification. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of up to one ounce by a person 21 or older is a civil violation punishable by a $25 fine. However, possession of more than one ounce, or any amount by a person under 21, remains a criminal offense. Possession with intent to distribute is a felony with severe penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Falls Church General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Resources & Court Information
For the official text of Virginia’s drug laws, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website. All Falls Church marijuana possession cases are heard at the Falls Church General District Court located at 300 Park Avenue, Suite 151W.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Falls Church Court
In Falls Church General District Court, prosecutors must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed marijuana. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Falls Church will examine the legality of the search, the chain of custody of the evidence, and the accuracy of lab testing. The court may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a marijuana possession lawyer Falls Church immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain police reports, lab results, and body camera footage to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence if the search violated your Fourth Amendment rights.
- Negotiation or Trial: Negotiate for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program. If no fair offer is made, prepare for a bench trial before the judge.
- Post-Trial: If convicted, explore appeal options to the Falls Church Circuit Court. If the case is dismissed, file for expungement.
Penalties for Marijuana Offenses in Falls Church
In Falls Church, penalties for marijuana offenses range from a small civil fine for minor possession to years in prison for distribution.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (21+) | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (Class 5 or higher) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Felony record, asset forfeiture |
| Sale to a Minor | Felony | 10 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Permanent revocation possible | Severe mandatory minimums |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
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 procedures at Falls Church General District Court and the strategies employed by the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
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 & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients facing drug charges in Northern Virginia. For example, we have successfully amended felony distribution charges down to simple possession. In another case, a motion to suppress evidence led to a complete dismissal of possession charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Representation for Falls Church Residents
Our Fairfax location is minutes from the Falls Church General District Court, accessible via Route 7 and I-66. We serve as your dedicated marijuana possession lawyer near Falls Church, representing clients from neighborhoods throughout the city. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession still a crime in Falls Church, VA?
It depends. Possession of more than one ounce by an adult, or any amount by someone under 21, is a criminal misdemeanor in Falls Church. Possession of one ounce or less by an adult 21+ is a civil violation with a $25 fine.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged in Falls Church?
Yes, if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or the prosecution entered a nolle prosequi. Virginia law under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 allows expungement for these outcomes. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Falls Church can file the petition in Falls Church Circuit Court.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in Falls Church?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with police. Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer Falls Church as soon as possible to begin building your defense. Document everything you remember about the stop and arrest.
Will I go to jail for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
Not necessarily. For a first offense, prosecutors and judges in Falls Church often consider alternative dispositions like first-offender programs, which can result in dismissal without jail time. An experienced attorney is critical to securing this outcome.
How can a lawyer help with a simple possession case?
A marijuana possession lawyer Falls Church can challenge the legality of the stop, the scope of the search, the weight and testing of the substance, and negotiate for diversion programs. They protect your rights and work to avoid a criminal conviction.
Related Legal Services in Falls Church: If you are facing more serious allegations, our firm also provides strong defense for DUI charges and other criminal matters in Fairfax. For a complete overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.