Marijuana Possession Lawyer Prince George County, VA
If you are facing a marijuana possession charge in Prince George County, you need a defense attorney who understands Virginia’s evolving cannabis laws and the local court system. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents individuals charged with possession offenses in General District Court and Circuit Court throughout Prince George County. Our Richmond location serves clients across the county, including the Prince George and Hopewell areas. Reach our location at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your case.
What Marijuana Possession Means in Prince George County
Virginia legalized possession of up to one ounce of marijuana by adults 21 and older effective July 1, 2021, under Va. Code § 4.1-1100 et seq. Possession of more than one ounce remains prohibited. Amounts between one and four ounces are subject to a civil penalty; possession of more than four ounces may be charged as a criminal misdemeanor. Larger quantities—especially where evidence of cultivation or distribution exists—can be prosecuted as a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-248.
In Prince George County, marijuana possession cases are heard at the Prince George County General District Court at 6601 Courts Drive, Prince George, VA 23875. Misdemeanor quantities are handled in the General District Court, while felony-level charges proceed to Prince George County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County prosecutes drug offenses, and the court’s calendar is managed by the Eleventh Judicial District. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear routinely in these courts and understand the procedural nuances that affect case outcomes.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Marijuana Possession Cases
When we represent someone charged with marijuana possession, we begin by examining the specific facts of the stop, search, and arrest. Law enforcement must have reasonable suspicion to stop a vehicle or person and probable cause to conduct a search. Any evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment may be challenged through a motion to suppress. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel review police reports, body-worn camera footage, and field-test results to identify constitutional or procedural weaknesses.
The legal approach also considers Virginia’s first-offender provisions. Under Va. Code § 18.2-251, a person charged with a first-offense drug possession may be eligible for deferred disposition: the court places the defendant on probation and, upon successful completion, dismisses the charge. Even if a deferred disposition is not available, an experienced defense attorney can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek amendment or reduction of the charge. Every case is evaluated individually because the facts and the prosecution’s position vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. A former prosecutor, he brings insight into charging decisions and courtroom strategy. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and has practiced since 1997. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. The Of Counsel team includes attorneys with prior law-enforcement backgrounds, which aids in evaluating police procedures in marijuana possession cases. Together, they have documented extensive case results throughout Virginia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for marijuana possession in Prince George County?
The penalty depends on the amount of marijuana and any prior criminal history. Possession of more than one ounce but not more than four ounces by an adult is a civil offense with a fine of up to $25. Possession of more than four ounces is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Possession with intent to distribute or manufacture is a felony carrying significant prison time. The court may impose alternative dispositions, including probation and substance-use education, for first-time offenders.
Can a marijuana possession charge be dismissed in Virginia?
Yes, a charge may be dismissed if the Commonwealth moves to drop the case or the defendant successfully completes a deferred-disposition program. Under Va. Code § 18.2-251, the court may defer proceedings and place a first-offense defendant on probation. If all conditions are met, the court discharges the defendant and dismisses the charge. Additionally, if the evidence was obtained through an illegal search, a motion to suppress may result in dismissal.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against marijuana possession charges?
Defense strategies typically focus on challenging the legality of the stop or the search, disputing the weight and chain of custody of the evidence, or negotiating a reduction of the charge. An attorney will examine whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to stop the defendant and probable cause to search. Field-test reliability and lab-certification issues may also be raised. Depending on the circumstances, an attorney may seek deferred disposition or argue for dismissal under the first-offender statute.
Do I need a lawyer for a marijuana possession case in Prince George County?
Yes, because a conviction can create a permanent criminal record that affects employment, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor conviction can have long-term consequences. An experienced attorney can identify procedural violations, negotiate with the prosecutor, and present mitigation that a self-represented defendant may not be able to raise. The firm’s location in Richmond regularly serves the Prince George County courts, and we are familiar with local procedures and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office.
What should I do if I am facing marijuana possession charges in Virginia?
Contact an attorney immediately and do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any relevant documents or evidence. Do not make statements to law enforcement without counsel present. The prosecutor may use anything you say against you. Prompt legal guidance is important because early investigation can uncover evidence that might otherwise be lost.
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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Results may vary.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. · 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 · (888) 437‑7747 · By appointment only.