Marijuana Possession Lawyer Greene County, VA

You were driving on Route 29 through Stanardsville, Virginia, when a traffic stop for a broken tail light led to a search of your vehicle. The officer found a small amount of marijuana, and now you face a possession charge in Greene County General District Court. You are worried about a criminal record, the possibility of jail time, and what comes next. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends individuals facing marijuana possession charges in Greene County, VA. To discuss your case, call (888) 437-7747 and request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Defense Strategies for a Marijuana Charge in Greene County

A marijuana possession charge in Greene County is not a foregone conclusion. Experienced defense counsel can examine the stop, the search, and the evidence to identify issues that may lead to a reduction or dismissal. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to every case. Results may vary. Common defense approaches include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, contesting the validity of a consent search, and verifying that the substance was handled and tested according to protocol. In some instances, a first-offender program may be available, allowing the charge to be deferred and eventually dismissed.

Virginia’s marijuana laws changed significantly after July 1, 2021, and many defendants are unsure whether their conduct remains subject to criminal penalties. A thorough review of the quantity, the circumstances, and the defendant’s prior record determines the proper classification of the offense and the available options for resolving the case.

What to Expect When Your Case Is in Greene County General District Court

Misdemeanor marijuana possession cases in Greene County are heard at Greene County General District Court, located at 85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville, VA 22973. At an initial appearance, the court will notify you of the charge and your right to counsel. If you have retained a lawyer, the matter may proceed to a trial date set by the court. Misdemeanor trials in General District Court are heard by a judge; there is no jury at this level. If convicted, you have an automatic right to appeal to Greene County Circuit Court for a new trial before a jury. The timeline for a case depends on the court’s calendar and the complexity of the issues involved.

If the charge is a felony—for example, possession of more than one pound of marijuana or a second or subsequent offense—the General District Court will hold a preliminary hearing to determine whether probable cause exists. If probable cause is found, the case is certified to Greene County Circuit Court for further proceedings. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are experienced in both General District and Circuit Court matters and can guide you through each stage.

Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Virginia

Under Virginia Code § 4.1-1100 et seq., possession of up to one ounce of marijuana by adults 21 and older is legal. Possession of more than one ounce but not more than four ounces is a civil violation punishable by a fine of up to $25. Criminal charges apply when the amount exceeds four ounces. Possession of more than four ounces but not more than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Possession with intent to distribute or possession of larger amounts may be charged as a felony, with potential sentences ranging from one to ten years or more.

A conviction for marijuana possession can have consequences beyond the immediate sentence. A criminal record may affect employment, housing, professional licenses, and educational opportunities. Under Virginia Code § 19.2-392.2, an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi may be eligible for expungement. For a first-offense possession of marijuana, a deferred disposition under Virginia Code § 18.2-251 may be available, resulting in dismissal after successful completion of probation. An experienced defense lawyer can assess whether these options apply to your situation.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include a former Virginia State Trooper with fifteen years of law enforcement experience. This combination of prosecutorial and law enforcement insight allows the firm to analyze a marijuana possession charge from every angle—examining the legality of the stop, the integrity of the evidence, and the procedural compliance of the arresting officers.

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear in Greene County General District Court and Greene County Circuit Court. They work to achieve favorable outcomes for clients facing marijuana possession and other criminal charges across Central and Northern Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for a misdemeanor marijuana possession in Greene County, Virginia?

A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Marijuana possession between four ounces and one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Cases are heard at Greene County General District Court. A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, but first-offender programs may allow a defendant to avoid a conviction upon successful completion of probation.

Can a marijuana possession charge be expunged in Greene County?

Yes, if the charge results in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal. Virginia Code § 19.2-392.2 permits expungement of police and court records for charges that did not lead to a conviction. The petition is filed in Greene County Circuit Court. For a first-offense marijuana possession, a deferred disposition under § 18.2-251 can lead to dismissal, making the charge eligible for expungement.

Is marijuana legal in Virginia?

Yes, but only for adults 21 and older and in limited amounts. Since July 1, 2021, possession of up to one ounce of marijuana is legal for adults. Public consumption remains illegal, and possession of more than four ounces is a criminal offense. The firm can explain how the current law applies to your specific charge.

What should I do if I am charged with marijuana possession in Greene County?

Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Do not discuss the facts of the case with anyone other than your lawyer. Preserve any documents, receipts, or messages that may be relevant. An attorney can advise you before any court appearance and help you understand the potential consequences and defenses.

How does a lawyer defend against a marijuana possession charge?

Defense strategies may include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, the validity of the search, and the chain of custody of the evidence. An experienced attorney reviews whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to stop the vehicle and whether any consent to search was voluntarily given. Procedural errors and testing irregularities can also be grounds for suppressing evidence or seeking a dismissal.

Do I need a lawyer for a marijuana possession charge in Greene County?

Yes, even a misdemeanor charge can result in jail time and a permanent criminal record. An attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor, explore diversion programs, and protect your rights throughout the process. Self-representation carries significant risk, particularly if you are unfamiliar with Virginia criminal procedure.

For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys at (888) 437-7747.

Last reviewed: July 2026

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