Marijuana Possession Lawyer King George County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in King George 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 strong defense for marijuana possession charges in King George County.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the knowing or intentional possession of marijuana without a valid prescription. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of any amount up to one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 5 felony, carrying 1-10 years in prison. Possession of one pound or more is a felony with more severe penalties. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute (PWID), which carries much harsher penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
External Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s drug laws, visit the Virginia General Assembly website. For information on the King George County court where these cases are heard, see the King George County General District Court website.
King George County Court Process for Marijuana Charges
Marijuana possession cases in King George County begin at the King George County General District Court located at 10446 Government Center Blvd. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. First-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available, skilled to dismissal upon successful completion. It is critical to have a cannabis charge defense lawyer King George County involved from the start to protect your rights and explore all options.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, diversion, or dismissal.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial in General District Court.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to the King George County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in King George County
In King George County, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a driver’s license suspension of 6 months.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Felony (§ 18.2-248.1) | 5-30 years | Up to $10,000 | 6-month suspension | Mandatory minimum sentence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Drug Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have achieved documented results in drug possession cases, including reductions and dismissals. Our team understands the local court procedures and works to protect your future.
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 handling drug cases. For example, we have successfully negotiated amendments of distribution charges down to simple possession. In other cases, we have secured dismissals through first-offender programs. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients in King George County. We are accessible via Route 3 and Route 301. If you need a marijuana arrest lawyer King George County, we are here to help. We serve the communities of King George and Dahlgren.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
It depends. Possession of one ounce or less is a misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce is a felony under Virginia law. The specific amount and circumstances determine the charge.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged in King George County?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A first-offender dismissal may qualify. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A cannabis charge defense lawyer King George County can advise on your eligibility.
Will I go to jail for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
Not necessarily. For a first offense, the court often considers alternatives like probation, fines, or a first-offender program. However, jail is a possible penalty. An experienced marijuana arrest lawyer King George County can argue for a non-custodial outcome.
What is the first-offender program for marijuana in Virginia?
Virginia’s first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allows eligible defendants to complete probation, drug education, and community service. Upon successful completion, the charge is dismissed. This avoids a conviction but requires a guilty plea upfront.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple possession charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries up to a year in jail, a fine, and a permanent record that affects employment and housing. A marijuana possession lawyer King George County can seek a dismissal, reduction, or diversion you may not secure on your own.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.