Cannabis Possession Lawyer Greene County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple possession of marijuana in Greene County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A cannabis possession lawyer Greene County 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 without a valid medical prescription. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of up to one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 5 felony, carrying 1 to 10 years in prison. Possession of one pound or more is a felony with more severe penalties. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute, which carries heavier penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Greene County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in Greene County
Prosecutors in Greene County General District Court handle numerous marijuana cases. An effective cannabis arrest lawyer Greene County examines the stop, search, and seizure for constitutional violations. Common defenses include lack of probable cause for the stop, an unlawful search, or challenges to the chain of custody of the evidence. For eligible first-time offenders, Va. Code § 18.2-251 allows for a deferred disposition. Successful completion of terms like community service and drug education can lead to dismissal of the charge.
- Consult with a cannabis possession lawyer Greene County immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will file a motion for discovery to obtain all police reports, lab results, and body camera footage.
- Your lawyer will identify potential defenses, such as an illegal search or problems with the evidence.
- Based on the evidence, your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or first-offender program.
- If no favorable plea agreement is reached, your lawyer will prepare for and represent you at trial in Greene County General District Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Greene County
In Greene County, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction also results in a driver’s license suspension of six months.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Criminal record, possible drug education |
| Possession >1 oz & <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of certain rights |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Felony (§ 18.2-248.1) | 5-30 years | Fine at court’s discretion | 6-month suspension | Mandatory minimum sentence, felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
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 achieving favorable outcomes for our clients across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your case and the procedures of your local court.
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 has a documented result in Greene County: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate for this locality). Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor who founded the firm and personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute—focuses on thorough case preparation and assertive representation in local courts.
Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Greene County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Greene County courts (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville). We provide representation for residents of Stanardsville and Ruckersville. 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
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Greene County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Greene County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Greene County General District Court (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville, VA 22973). 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate). Results may vary.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Greene County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Greene County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate). Results may vary.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a marijuana charge in Greene County?
Yes. Even a simple possession charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor with potential jail time and a mandatory driver’s license suspension. A marijuana charge defense lawyer Greene County can challenge the legality of the stop and search, negotiate for a first-offender program, or fight the charge at trial to protect your record and driving privileges.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Greene County?
Greene County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Greene County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Greene County General District Court (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville, VA 22973) is the GDC location.
Can I get a first-offender deal for marijuana in Greene County?
It depends. Va. Code § 18.2-251 provides for a deferred disposition for first-time simple possession. Eligibility is not automatic. A cannabis arrest lawyer Greene County can advocate for this outcome, which typically requires completing community service, drug education, and remaining drug-free for a period before the charge is dismissed.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, our Greene County DUI Lawyer can help.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.