Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Me
When you search for a “cannabis possession lawyer near me,” you need counsel who is local, accessible, and knowledgeable about the marijuana laws in your jurisdiction. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., concentrates its practice on criminal defense, including cannabis possession charges in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has built a reputation for handling drug-possession matters with thorough preparation and client-focused advocacy. While Virginia legalized adult possession of up to one ounce in 2021, possession over the lawful limit or in public can still result in criminal or civil charges. The legal landscape across our five-jurisdiction practice area varies significantly, and an experienced defense attorney can help you understand the charge you are facing, protect your record, and work toward a favorable resolution. To discuss your situation and request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. We have locations that serve clients throughout Northern Virginia, Maryland, and the greater Washington, D.C. Area, as well as New Jersey and New York. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Cannabis Possession Means for Your Case
Cannabis possession charges can range from civil infractions to felony offenses, depending on the amount, the location of the alleged possession, and your prior record. In Virginia, possession of more than one ounce but less than four ounces in public may be a civil penalty, while possession of more than four ounces is a criminal charge. Possession with intent to distribute carries far more serious consequences. Even a minor possession charge can affect employment, security clearances, and professional licenses. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team appear in courts across Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia, and we understand how prosecutors in each jurisdiction approach cannabis cases. In Maryland, for example, possession of ten grams or less is a civil citation, while possession of larger amounts remains a criminal matter. We evaluate the facts of your case, examine the evidence, and challenge procedural errors or unlawful searches that may lead to a dismissal or reduction of charges. Our representation focuses on protecting your freedom and future from a conviction that could have lasting consequences.
Because cannabis laws have changed significantly in recent years, the outcome of a possession case often turns on the specific statute under which you were charged. In Virginia, the Cannabis Control Act (Va. Code § 4.1-1100 et seq.) governs most adult-possession matters, while drug-distribution charges remain under Title 18.2. Mr. Sris and his team stay current with legislative changes so that your defense is built on the most accurate legal information available. We look for weaknesses in the state’s case, such as improper traffic stops, unreliable field tests, or chain-of-custody issues, and we negotiate with prosecutors to seek dismissals, deferred dispositions, or reduced charges whenever possible. While no attorney can guarantee a particular result, our firm’s approach is to explore every avenue that could lead to a better outcome for you. Results may vary.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Cannabis Possession Cases
Our defense strategy starts with a detailed review of the arrest and the evidence. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. We examine whether the initial stop was lawful, whether any search or seizure violated the Fourth Amendment, and whether the charging documents correctly identify the statutory violation. In many cases, procedural missteps by law enforcement provide grounds to move for suppression of evidence or outright dismissal. We also assess the client’s background, the potential immigration consequences of a conviction, and the availability of first-offender or deferred-disposition programs under Virginia law. For example, under Va. Code § 18.2-251, a first-time drug-possession offense may be deferred, and upon successful completion of probation and treatment, the charge may be dismissed. We walk clients through each stage of the court process, from arraignment to trial or negotiation, and we prepare every case as though it will go to trial, even when a resolution short of trial is the goal.
We appear in General District Courts, Circuit Courts, and federal courts throughout our multi-state practice area. Our familiarity with the local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures in Fairfax County, Prince William County, and other busy Northern Virginia courts gives us insight into how different jurisdictions handle cannabis possession allegations. For clients in Maryland or the District of Columbia, we adapt our approach to the distinct procedural rules and sentencing guidelines of those jurisdictions. Throughout your case, you will receive clear communication about your options and the potential consequences of each decision. We do not make promises about what will happen, but we dedicate our resources to pursuing the most advantageous path available under the law. To request a consultation, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997 after serving as a prosecutor. His prosecutorial background gives him a unique understanding of how the government builds its cases, which he uses to construct defense strategies for individuals accused of cannabis possession and other criminal offenses. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), a bill that reformed aspects of Virginia family law. He maintains a small personal caseload to remain directly involved in the firm’s most complex matters, while collaborating with a team of Of Counsel attorneys who collectively have handled thousands of criminal cases. Every attorney working on your matter has over a decade of courtroom experience, and the firm’s combined experience exceeds 120 years, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
The Of Counsel team includes former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney Kristen M. Fisher and former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, whose backgrounds in law enforcement and prosecution inform the firm’s approach to drug-possession defense. This team’s collective insight into police procedures, evidence collection, and prosecutorial decision-making is applied to every cannabis possession case the firm accepts. All Of Counsel attorneys work under Mr. Sris’s direction, and the firm has access to investigative resources and expert witnesses when the facts of a case require them. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York from multiple locations. By appointment only. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cannabis possession still a crime in Virginia?
Adult possession of up to one ounce of cannabis in a private residence is legal in Virginia. However, possession of more than one ounce in public, or possession of more than four ounces under any circumstances, can result in civil fines or criminal charges depending on the amount. Public consumption remains prohibited, and any possession with intent to distribute is a felony. Because the line between a civil infraction and a criminal misdemeanor is narrow, anyone charged with cannabis possession should consult an attorney to understand the specific statute they face and the potential consequences.
What should I do if I have been charged with cannabis possession?
Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney before speaking with anyone else about your case. Do not discuss the facts with friends or post on social media. Preserve any documents, receipts, or communications that may relate to the incident. The Commonwealth’s Attorney in Virginia or the State’s Attorney in Maryland will begin building a case immediately, and having counsel early can affect whether charges are filed, reduced, or dismissed. A lawyer can also advise you on whether a first-offender or deferred-disposition program may apply.
Can a cannabis possession conviction be expunged in Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for charges that are dismissed, acquitted, or nolle prossed, but not for most convictions. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, you may petition the circuit court to expunge police and court records if the charge did not result in a conviction. If you receive a deferred disposition on a first-possession charge under § 18.2-251 and successfully complete the terms, the charge is dismissed and may be eligible for expungement. An attorney can review your record and advise whether your specific disposition qualifies for expungement.
Do I need a lawyer if cannabis is now legal for adults in Virginia?
Yes, you should still speak with a lawyer if you are charged with any cannabis-related offense. Legalization of small amounts does not eliminate criminal liability for possession beyond the legal limit, possession with intent to distribute, or possession on school property or by individuals under 21. A criminal charge can still appear on background checks, affect your employment, and create immigration consequences for noncitizens. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether the charge is defensible and whether an alternative resolution is available under current law.
What are the penalties for cannabis possession with intent to distribute in Virginia?
Possession with intent to distribute cannabis in Virginia is a felony, carrying significant prison time and fines. The severity of the penalty depends on the weight of the cannabis and whether aggravating factors exist, such as distribution near a school. A felony conviction also brings the loss of firearm rights, voting rights during incarceration, and long-term restrictions on employment and housing. An attorney may be able to challenge the evidence of intent or negotiate a reduction to a simple possession charge, which carries less severe consequences.
How does the firm defend against cannabis possession cases?
Our defense strategy focuses on challenging the traffic stop, search, and seizure that led to the discovery of the cannabis. If law enforcement lacked reasonable suspicion or probable cause, evidence obtained may be suppressed. We also examine whether the lab analysis and chain of custody were handled properly. Additionally, we review the client’s background for eligibility in diversion or first-offender programs that can result in a dismissal. Each case is fact-specific, and our goal is to minimize the impact on the client’s record and liberty. Results may vary.
Explore related pages: Virginia Criminal Lawyer | Fairfax Criminal Lawyer | Richmond Criminal Lawyer
Primary sources: Virginia Code Title 4.1 (Cannabis Control) • Virginia Judicial System • Virginia Legislative Information System
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
