Marijuana Possession Lawyer Manassas, VA
Facing a marijuana possession charge in Manassas, Virginia, can be unsettling. Virginia law changed profoundly on July 1, 2021, when adult possession of up to one ounce of cannabis was legalized. Despite that reform, possession exceeding one ounce, possession by a person under 21, and public consumption remain criminal offenses. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, concentrates its practice on criminal defense, and the firm regularly represents individuals charged with marijuana possession in Manassas and the surrounding communities. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and Owner and Founder of the firm, leads a team of Of Counsel who bring over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. If you are facing a marijuana possession citation or indictment, call (888) 437‑7747 to request a consultation. We appear in the Manassas General District Court and Manassas Circuit Court, and we work toward favorable outcomes—whether that means a dismissal through a first‑offender program, a reduction of the charge, or an acquittal at trial. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Marijuana Possession Means in Manassas, Virginia
In Manassas, a marijuana possession case is heard in the General District Court if the charge is a misdemeanor, or in the Circuit Court if it is a felony. The courthouse is located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110, and serves both the City of Manassas and Manassas Park. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas prosecutes these offenses. Because Virginia law now draws a line at one ounce, the classification of the charge—and the potential consequences—depends on the amount involved. Possession of up to one ounce by an adult 21 or older in a private residence is lawful, but possessing between one and four ounces is a civil‑infraction punishable by a $25 fine. Possession of more than four ounces is a Class 1 misdemeanor, and possession with intent to distribute can be charged as a felony.
For a person charged with marijuana possession, the stakes extend beyond the courtroom. A conviction can affect employment, housing, professional licenses, and even immigration status. Under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2, a charge that ends in a nolle prosequi, acquittal, or dismissal may be expunged. However, most convictions cannot be expunged. That is why early engagement with a criminal defense lawyer is critical. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we examine the facts of each case closely—from the initial traffic stop to the laboratory analysis—to identify the strongest path forward.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Marijuana Possession Cases
Our approach begins with a thorough review of the evidence. We scrutinize the legality of the stop or search, the handling of any seized substance, and the chain‑of‑custody records. If the government cannot prove that the substance was in fact marijuana or that the defendant knowingly possessed it, the charge may be challenged. One of the firm’s Of Counsel is a former Virginia State Trooper who served for 15 years, and that law‑enforcement background gives the team a practical understanding of how police investigations are conducted and where procedural weaknesses often appear.
When the evidence is strong, we focus on mitigating the consequences. Virginia’s first‑offender statute for drug possession, Va. Code § 18.2‑251, allows a court to defer proceedings and place the defendant on probation. If the defendant completes the required terms—which typically include substance‑abuse screening, treatment or education, and remaining drug‑ and alcohol‑free—the court dismisses the charge. This disposition avoids a conviction and, if the charge is dismissed, the record may later be expunged. We also explore whether the charge can be amended to a non‑criminal infraction or a lesser offense. Throughout the process, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel keep the client informed and make sure they understand each step.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and he testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His practical insight into how prosecutors build cases, combined with decades of courtroom experience, shapes the defense strategy in every matter the firm handles.
The Of Counsel team that works alongside Mr. Sris includes a former prosecutor and a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law‑enforcement service. Collectively, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. That depth of experience means that when a client walks into the Manassas courthouse, they are represented by lawyers who understand local practice, know the judges and prosecutors, and can anticipate the prosecution’s next move.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession still a crime in Virginia?
Yes, marijuana possession can still be a crime in Virginia despite the 2021 legalization of adult possession of up to one ounce. Possession of more than one ounce remains illegal: one to four ounces is a civil penalty, while more than four ounces is a criminal misdemeanor. Possession by a person under 21, public consumption, and possession with intent to distribute are all criminal offenses that can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent record. If you have been charged, speak with an attorney promptly.
What are the penalties for marijuana possession in Manassas?
In Manassas, the penalties for marijuana possession depend on the amount and the circumstances. Possession of more than four ounces is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the charge involves distribution or intent to distribute, it can be prosecuted as a felony with more severe consequences. For a first offense, deferred disposition under Va. Code § 18.2‑251 may be available, allowing the charge to be dismissed after probation. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Can a marijuana possession charge be dismissed?
Yes, a marijuana possession charge can often be dismissed, especially for a first offense. Virginia law permits a court to defer disposition and place the defendant on probation under Va. Code § 18.2‑251. If the defendant completes the conditions—such as a substance‑abuse assessment, any recommended treatment, community service, and remaining drug‑free—the court dismisses the charge. Dismissal under this statute avoids a conviction and may make the charge eligible for expungement. An experienced defense attorney can help you determine whether you qualify.
Do I need a lawyer for a marijuana possession charge in Manassas?
You are not legally required to have a lawyer, but representing yourself can be risky. A marijuana possession conviction carries possible jail time, a criminal record, and collateral consequences that affect employment, education, and housing. Even a seemingly minor charge can escalate if the prosecutor seeks enhanced penalties or if the case involves additional allegations. Having a lawyer who knows the Manassas courts and Virginia cannabis law helps you make informed decisions and pursue the favorable outcomes.
How does a lawyer defend against marijuana possession charges?
A defense lawyer challenges the government’s case at every point. Common strategies include arguing that the search or seizure was unlawful, questioning the identity or weight of the alleged substance, or demonstrating lack of knowledge or possession. In many Manassas cases, the firm’s Of Counsel—one of whom is a former Virginia State Trooper—examines whether the officer followed proper procedure. Even when the evidence is strong, a lawyer can negotiate for diversion programs, deferred disposition, or a reduction of the charge to a non‑criminal infraction. Every case is different; a thorough evaluation is the first step.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in Manassas?
If you are arrested, remain calm and do not make any statements to the police beyond identifying yourself. You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with an attorney. Write down everything you remember about the stop and arrest as soon as possible, including the location, the officer’s name or badge number, and what was said. Then contact a criminal defense lawyer promptly. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Related help: Manassas Criminal Defense · Prince William County Criminal Lawyer · Fairfax County Criminal Lawyer · Falls Church Criminal Lawyer
Official resources: Virginia Code Title 4.1 (Cannabis Regulation) · Manassas General District Court · Virginia Judicial System
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