Marijuana Possession Lawyer Manassas Park, VA
If you are facing a marijuana possession charge in Manassas Park, you need a defense attorney who understands Virginia’s evolving cannabis laws and how cases are handled at the Manassas Park General District Court. Since July 1, 2021, adults 21 and older may legally possess up to one ounce of marijuana. However, charges remain for possession of more than one ounce, for public consumption, for underage possession, and for distribution. A conviction can carry jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represent individuals charged with marijuana and other drug offenses in Manassas Park and throughout Virginia. With over 120 years of combined legal experience and a former prosecutor on the team, our firm brings a thorough understanding of the local court system to each case. Results may vary. Reach our location at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Marijuana Possession Means in Manassas Park
Virginia law now draws a clear line: personal possession of one ounce or less of marijuana by an adult over 21 is legal. Possession of more than one ounce but less than four ounces is a civil violation subject to a fine of up to $25. Possession of four ounces or more remains a criminal offense. Additionally, any possession by an individual under 21, possession on school property, or possession with intent to distribute can lead to criminal prosecution in Manassas Park.
Virginia law permits adults 21+ to legally possess up to one ounce of marijuana; possession of one to four ounces is a civil violation punishable by a $25 fine; possession of four ounces or more is a criminal offense.
Source: Va. Code § 4.1-1100 et seq. (Cannabis Control Act). Virginia Legislative Information System
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
The Manassas Park General District Court, located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, handles misdemeanor marijuana trials and felony preliminary hearings. A first-offense marijuana possession charge (where the amount exceeds the legal limit) may qualify for deferred disposition under Virginia Code § 18.2-251. Under this first-offender program, the court can defer proceedings and place the defendant on probation with conditions such as substance-abuse assessment and treatment. Successful completion results in dismissal of the charge, making the case eligible for expungement. This is a valuable option because a conviction can create a lasting criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licensing.
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia carries a maximum sentence of up to 12 months in jail and a fine.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-11. Virginia Legislative Information System
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Marijuana Possession Cases
When you contact our firm, an initial consultation allows Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team to understand the circumstances of your arrest and the evidence the prosecution intends to use. Virginia law permits plea negotiations; the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend charges or offer a deferred disposition. Our attorneys examine the legality of the stop, the handling of the evidence, and any procedural missteps that could weaken the prosecution’s case. If a first-offender program is available, we present a plan for compliance and seek dismissal of the charge. When a resolution through negotiation is not possible, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are prepared to defend the case at trial. Because a marijuana conviction can have long-term consequences, we work to limit exposure at every stage. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who established the firm in 1997. He has testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He and his Of Counsel team bring over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. Together they have documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I am charged with marijuana possession in Manassas Park?
You will be required to appear in Manassas Park General District Court to answer the charge. The court schedules a hearing where you enter a plea. If you plead not guilty, a trial date will be set. Because a possession conviction can result in jail time, a fine, and a permanent criminal record, it is important to have an attorney review the circumstances of your case. Depending on the amount of marijuana and your prior record, you may be eligible for a first-offender program that can lead to dismissal. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can a first-offense marijuana charge be dismissed in Virginia?
Yes, a first-offense marijuana possession charge often may be dismissed through Virginia’s deferred disposition program under Code § 18.2-251. If you consent, the court can defer proceedings and place you on probation. Conditions commonly include substance-abuse assessment, any recommended treatment, community service, and remaining drug- and alcohol-free. If you complete all conditions, the charge is dismissed, and you can petition for expungement. This option is available only once, so it is important to have an attorney present a strong plan for compliance to the court. To discuss eligibility for deferred disposition, contact our firm at (888) 437-7747.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged from my record?
If your charge results in an acquittal, a nolle prosequi, or a dismissal, you are generally eligible to petition for expungement under Virginia Code § 19.2-392.2. A conviction, however, usually cannot be expunged under current law. For marijuana charges, successful completion of a first-offender program ends in a dismissal, which qualifies for expungement. The petition is filed in the Manassas Park Circuit Court. Having the record sealed can be critical for employment and housing. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a marijuana possession charge even if it is a small amount?
Yes, because any conviction for marijuana possession can create a criminal record that affects employment, security clearances, student loans, and professional licenses. Even a small amount over the legal limit can result in a misdemeanor or felony charge depending on the weight. An attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor, and explore deferred disposition options that a defendant handling the case alone might miss. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we have extensive experience representing individuals in Manassas Park drug cases and aim to protect your future. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your matter.
What is the penalty for marijuana possession of more than four ounces in Virginia?
Possession of more than four ounces of marijuana is a criminal offense prosecuted in the General District Court if a misdemeanor, or in the Circuit Court if a felony. The possible penalty includes jail time and a fine; for amounts that qualify as a felony, sentencing can range from one to ten years under Virginia’s drug laws. The exact charge depends on the quantity and any aggravating factors. An experienced attorney can review the case for weaknesses in the search, seizure, or lab analysis. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.