Marijuana Possession Lawyer Greene County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A marijuana possession charge in Greene County 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. has documented results defending clients in Greene County General District Court. A skilled marijuana possession lawyer Greene County can challenge the evidence and seek alternatives like a first-offender program.
Virginia Law on Marijuana Possession
In Virginia, simple possession of marijuana (one ounce or less) by an adult is a civil offense punishable by a $25 fine under Va. Code § 4.1-1105. However, possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, with penalties of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Possession with intent to distribute is a felony. The law distinguishes between personal use and distribution, with penalties escalating based on quantity and prior offenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-250.1
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s drug laws, refer to the Virginia General Assembly code website. For local court procedures and forms, visit the Greene County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Greene County
Prosecutors in Greene County General District Court handle marijuana possession cases routinely. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the substance. A common defense is challenging the legality of the search or seizure that led to the discovery of the marijuana. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights, the evidence may be suppressed, skilled to a case dismissal.
- Secure representation from a cannabis charge defense lawyer Greene County immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will file a motion for discovery to review the prosecution’s evidence, including police reports and lab analysis.
- Your lawyer will identify potential defenses, such as unlawful search, lack of knowledge, or challenging the chain of custody of the evidence.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a first-offender program.
- If no favorable plea is reached, prepare for and proceed to a bench trial in Greene County General District Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Offenses in Greene County
In Greene County, penalties for marijuana possession range from a civil fine for a small amount to jail time for larger quantities or intent to distribute.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (adult) | Civil Offense | None | $25 | None | Civil penalty, no criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz – <1 lb | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record, possible driver’s license suspension |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (Class 5 or higher) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Felony record, severe long-term consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Greene County Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients facing drug charges in Virginia. Our team understands the local court procedures and prosecution strategies in Greene County.
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 firm has achieved favorable results in drug possession cases across Virginia. In Fairfax County, we have successfully negotiated amendments of felony distribution charges down to simple possession. In other jurisdictions, we have secured dismissals for clients who completed first-offender programs. While results are specific to each case, our approach focuses on thorough evidence review and strategic negotiation.
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 has personally handled thousands of cases.
Contact Our Greene County Marijuana Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Greene County. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33. If you need a marijuana arrest lawyer Greene County, we are here to help. We serve the communities of Stanardsville and Ruckersville.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
No, simple possession of one ounce or less is a civil offense for adults. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, possession with intent to distribute is a felony.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Greene County?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, you may petition for expungement if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or a nolle prosequi was entered. A conviction for simple possession generally cannot be expunged, but a dismissal through a first-offender program may qualify.
What is the penalty for a first-time marijuana possession charge in Greene County?
For a first offense of possessing more than one ounce, the penalty is up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. However, many first-time offenders are offered a deferred disposition, which can lead to dismissal.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a marijuana possession conviction?
Yes, a conviction for possession of marijuana (more than one ounce) or any controlled substance mandates a six-month driver’s license suspension under Va. Code § 18.2-259.1. The court has no discretion to avoid this suspension upon conviction.
Should I hire a lawyer for a misdemeanor marijuana charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record, can result in jail time, and triggers an automatic driver’s license suspension. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Greene County can work to have the charge reduced, dismissed, or diverted to a first-offender program to avoid these consequences.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles Virginia criminal defense matters. For clients in nearby areas, we represent individuals as a marijuana possession lawyer in Fairfax County. In Greene County, we also assist with DUI defense and reckless driving tickets.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.