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 knowing or intentional possession of marijuana without a valid prescription. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, defines the offense and its penalties. Possession of any amount 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 1-10 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 consequences.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the Virginia statute, see the official Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (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
An effective defense begins immediately after an arrest. In Greene County General District Court, prosecutors must prove you knowingly possessed the substance. A skilled cannabis arrest lawyer Greene County examines the stop’s legality, the search and seizure, and the chain of custody of the evidence. Common defenses include lack of knowledge, unlawful search, or mistaken identity. For eligible first-time offenders, Va. Code § 18.2-251 allows for a deferred disposition, which can lead to dismissal upon completion of terms.
- Consult a Lawyer Immediately: Contact a cannabis possession lawyer Greene County before your court date to protect your rights.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain police reports, lab results, and witness statements to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence if the stop or search violated your constitutional rights.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate for a reduction, diversion, or dismissal. If a fair plea isn’t offered, they will prepare for trial.
- Resolution: Work toward the best possible outcome, whether it’s an acquittal, dismissal, or a favorable plea agreement.
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, plus a 6-month driver’s license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Possession >1 oz & <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory 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 mandatory suspension | Severe felony penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Greene County
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 to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients across Virginia. Our approach is direct: we analyze the specific facts of your case, develop a clear strategy, and represent you aggressively in Greene County General District 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 record of favorable outcomes. In Greene County, we have secured dismissals and favorable resolutions for clients facing criminal charges. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including experienced attorney Mr. Sris, focuses on building strong defenses. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, maintains a selective caseload to provide focused attention on complex matters.
Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Greene County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Greene County courts (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville). We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33. If you need a marijuana charge defense lawyer Greene County, we are here to help. We serve the communities of Stanardsville and Ruckersville.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
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 are heard at Greene County General District Court.
Can marijuana charges be expunged in Greene County, Virginia?
It depends. 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 for dismissal through a deferred disposition, which can then lead to expungement eligibility.
How does bail work for a marijuana arrest in Greene County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Greene County. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is more typical for felony possession charges. Bond decisions can be reviewed at your first court appearance.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor charge carries up to 12 months in jail, a fine, and a mandatory 6-month driver’s license suspension. It also creates a permanent criminal record. A cannabis possession lawyer Greene County can fight the charge or seek a diversion program to avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a marijuana charge?
Greene County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor possession trials and felony preliminary hearings. Greene County Circuit Court handles felony possession jury trials and all appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services as a DUI lawyer in Greene County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.