Marijuana Possession Lawyer King William County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in King William 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 marijuana possession lawyer King William County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the evidence and seek alternatives like a first-offender program.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law criminalizes the possession of marijuana. Under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, possession of up to one ounce by a person 21 or older is a civil penalty. However, possession of more than one ounce, or any amount by a person under 21, remains a criminal offense. In King William County, these charges are prosecuted in the King William County General District Court at 351 Courthouse Lane, Suite 201.
Last verified: April 2026 | King William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the King William County Courts website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in King William County
An effective defense starts with a detailed review of the stop, search, and seizure. Police must have a valid legal basis for both. In King William County General District Court, prosecutors may offer first-offender dispositions under Va. Code § 18.2-251 for eligible individuals, which can lead to dismissal upon completion of terms.
- Case Review: A marijuana arrest lawyer King William County will examine the arrest report for Fourth Amendment violations regarding the stop or search.
- Evidence Challenge: File a motion to suppress if the marijuana was found through an unlawful search, which can lead to the case being dismissed.
- Negotiation: Discuss options with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, such as amending the charge or entering a first-offender program.
- Resolution: Proceed to trial if a fair plea cannot be reached, or complete program requirements for a dismissal.
Potential Penalties for Marijuana Possession
In King William County, marijuana possession penalties escalate based on amount, prior record, and age.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (21+) | Civil Violation | None | Up to $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz (1st Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Subsequent Possession | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession < 21 years old | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Criminal record, driver’s license suspension, possible drug education |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Drug Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented record of handling drug possession cases. For example, our team, including Of Counsel Bryan Block, has successfully negotiated amendments from more serious distribution charges down to simple possession, helping clients avoid felony convictions.
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 in Virginia
Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Virginia, we have secured dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions for clients facing drug charges. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. Our Richmond location serves clients in King William, West Point, and Aylett. We are your local marijuana possession lawyer King William County resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a first-time marijuana possession charge in King William County?
It depends on the amount and age. For adults over 21 with one ounce or less, it’s a $25 civil penalty. For possession of more than one ounce, it’s a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense, with higher penalties for subsequent offenses or if the person is under 21.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals (including through first-offender programs), and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A cannabis charge defense lawyer King William County can advise if your case qualifies.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a marijuana possession conviction?
Possibly. Va. Code § 18.2-259.1 mandates a six-month driver’s license suspension for any drug conviction, including marijuana possession, for individuals under 21 at the time of the offense. For adults, the court has discretion to order a suspension but it is not automatic.
What is a first-offender program for marijuana possession?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-251, eligible first-time offenders may be placed on probation. Upon successful completion of terms like community service and drug education, the charge is dismissed. This avoids a conviction but requires an admission of facts.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor creates a permanent criminal record affecting employment and housing. A marijuana arrest lawyer King William County can challenge the stop or search, negotiate for a first-offender program, or seek a reduction to avoid a drug conviction on your record.
Contact a Marijuana Possession Lawyer King William County
If you are facing cannabis charges in King William County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. immediately. We provide 24/7 consultations. For related legal help, see our pages on King William County criminal defense and King William County DUI defense. Learn more about our firm on our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.