Marijuana Possession Lawyer Loudoun County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Marijuana possession in Loudoun County is a criminal offense under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 42 documented results in Loudoun County courts.
Last verified: April 2026 | Loudoun County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Simple possession of marijuana (one ounce or less) is a misdemeanor in Virginia under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. The law defines possession as having control over the substance. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Loudoun County understands that the Commonwealth must prove you knowingly and intentionally possessed the marijuana. Penalties increase for subsequent offenses or possession of more than one ounce. The official statute is maintained by the Virginia General Assembly.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your marijuana arrest lawyer Loudoun County may file motions to suppress evidence if the search was unlawful.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in GDC.
- Sentencing or Diversion: If found guilty, the judge imposes sentence. If diversion is granted and completed, the charge is dismissed.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Loudoun County
In Loudoun County, a first-offense marijuana possession charge carries up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine, with higher penalties for repeat offenses or larger amounts.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense (≤ 1 oz) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Second Offense (≤ 1 oz) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Felony distribution suspicion |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Loudoun County Marijuana Cases
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Loudoun County specifically, we have 42 documented results for criminal matters, including marijuana possession. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we use every available legal strategy.
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 team has achieved favorable outcomes in drug-related cases across Virginia. For example, we have successfully amended charges of distribution/PWI of marijuana to simple possession of marijuana in Fairfax County General District Court. In Bedford County, a charge for underage alcohol possession was taken under advisement and dismissed upon completion of community service.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Marijuana Possession Lawyer Near Loudoun County
Our Ashburn location serves clients at the Loudoun County courts. We are your local marijuana possession lawyer near Ashburn and Leesburg. We serve communities including Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, South Riding, Brambleton, Aldie, Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, and Round Hill.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza Suite 400 Room No 403
Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Loudoun County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Loudoun County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Marijuana possession is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Loudoun 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. A first-offense marijuana possession charge that is dismissed through a diversion program may be eligible for expungement.
How does bail work in Loudoun County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. For first-offense misdemeanors like simple marijuana possession, personal recognizance (no payment) is common in Loudoun County. Secured bond, requiring a bail bondsman, is more typical for felonies.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a marijuana charge in Loudoun County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor marijuana charge can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing. A marijuana possession lawyer Loudoun County can protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Loudoun County?
Loudoun County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials, including marijuana possession. Loudoun County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist with related matters like DUI defense in Loudoun and reckless driving in Loudoun.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.