Marijuana Possession Lawyer Falls Church — What Are Your Defense Options?
A marijuana possession charge in Falls Church is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for clients at Falls Church General District Court. If you need a marijuana possession lawyer Falls Church, contact us 24/7 for a consultation.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Simple possession of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. The law prohibits knowingly possessing marijuana without a valid prescription. The statute distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute, which carries felony penalties. Even a small amount can lead to a criminal record, driver’s license suspension, and other collateral consequences.
Last verified: April 2026 | Falls Church General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available through the Falls Church General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Falls Church Court
Prosecutors in Falls Church General District Court handle numerous marijuana cases. A key local procedural fact is that first-time offenders may be eligible for a deferred disposition under Va. Code § 18.2-251, which can lead to dismissal upon completion of terms. The specific facts of your stop and search are often the most critical part of the defense.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will file a motion for discovery to review the Commonwealth’s evidence.
- We will analyze the legality of the stop, search, and seizure of the marijuana.
- Based on the evidence, we will pursue dismissal, negotiate a favorable plea, or prepare for trial.
- If convicted, we can advocate for minimal penalties and explore expungement options if eligible.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Falls Church
In Falls Church, simple possession of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense, with increased penalties for subsequent convictions.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense Possession | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | 6-month suspension | Criminal record, possible drug education |
| Second Offense Possession | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Mandatory minimum 5 days jail or community service |
| Possession > 1 oz (but not with intent) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Presumption of possession with intent may apply |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Falls Church Criminal 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 court procedures and prosecution strategies in Falls Church.
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 for Drug Charges
Our attorneys have a documented history of achieving positive results in drug cases. In Fairfax County GDC, we have successfully amended felony distribution charges down to simple possession. In Falls Church, our firm has secured 6 documented criminal case results with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally handles intricate defense strategies.
Marijuana Possession Defense Near Falls Church, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Falls Church General District Court (300 Park Avenue). We are accessible via Route 7, Route 29, I-66, and I-495, near the West Falls Church Metro. We provide legal representation to individuals throughout Falls Church.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings 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 a felony in Virginia?
No. Simple possession of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. However, possession with intent to distribute or distribution are felony offenses.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Falls Church?
It depends. Virginia law allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi. A first-offense possession charge resolved through a deferred disposition (Va. Code § 18.2-251) may be eligible for expungement upon successful completion. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Falls Church Circuit Court.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Va. Code § 18.2-259.1 mandates a six-month driver’s license suspension for any drug conviction, including misdemeanor marijuana possession. A restricted license for work may be available.
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 law enforcement. Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer Falls Church as soon as possible to begin building your defense, focusing on the circumstances of the stop and search.
What’s the difference between possession and possession with intent?
Possession is simply having the substance for personal use. Possession with intent to distribute (PWID) is a felony that requires proof you intended to sell or give it away. Factors like quantity, packaging, scales, or large amounts of cash can lead to a PWID charge.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in Fairfax County and with Falls Church DUI charges.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For current advice regarding your specific case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.