Marijuana Possession Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Manassas 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 Manassas 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 prohibits the possession of marijuana. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. For a first offense of simple possession of one ounce or less, the law prescribes a civil penalty with a fine of up to $25. However, possession of more than one ounce, or any amount by someone with a prior conviction, is a criminal misdemeanor. The law is nuanced, and charges can escalate based on quantity, prior records, and intent to distribute.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms for Manassas cases are available at the Manassas General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Marijuana Charge in Manassas
Your case will begin at the Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue. Prosecutors here often offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 18.2-251 for eligible defendants, which can lead to dismissal upon completion. An experienced cannabis charge defense lawyer Manassas knows how to negotiate for this outcome.
- Receive a summons or be arrested and taken before a magistrate.
- Attend your arraignment hearing in Manassas GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery, file pre-trial motions, and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- If no agreement is reached, proceed to a bench trial before a judge in GDC.
- If convicted, you can appeal for a new jury trial in Manassas Circuit Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Virginia
In Manassas, marijuana possession penalties range from a civil fine to a year in jail, depending on the amount and your prior record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (1st offense) | Civil Offense | None | Up to $25 | None | Possible driver’s license suspension for failure to pay. |
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (2nd+ offense) | Class 4 Misdemeanor | None | Up to $250 | None | Criminal record. |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, housing, financial aid. |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID) | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Severe long-term consequences; federal implications possible. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have a track record of documented case results. Our approach is to examine every detail of your case, from the traffic stop to the lab analysis, to build a strong defense.
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-wide practice has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. For example, our team has successfully negotiated amendments of felony distribution charges down to simple possession. In another case, we secured a dismissal for a client after challenging the legality of a vehicle search. A skilled marijuana arrest lawyer Manassas understands how to achieve these results.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Marijuana Possession Defense Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas General District Court. We are a local marijuana possession lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown. We serve the Manassas community. 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 Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
No, simple possession of marijuana is not a felony in Virginia. Possession of more than one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, possession with intent to distribute (PWID) is a felony.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Manassas?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and cases dropped (nolle prosequi). If you complete a first-offender program under Va. Code § 18.2-251 and the charge is dismissed, you may petition the Manassas Circuit Court for expungement.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in Manassas?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with police. Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer Manassas as soon as possible. An attorney from SRIS, P.C. can be reached 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 to begin protecting your rights.
Will I go to jail for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
No, jail time is unlikely for a first-time possession of one ounce or less, as it is a civil offense. For possession of more than one ounce, jail is possible but often avoidable with an attorney who can seek alternative dispositions like a first-offender program.
How can a cannabis charge defense lawyer Manassas help me?
A defense lawyer can challenge the legality of the stop or search, question the evidence chain of custody, negotiate for a reduction or diversion program, and represent you at trial. Their goal is to minimize the impact on your record and future.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in Fairfax County and with related issues like Manassas DUI Defense.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.