Cannabis Possession Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Cannabis possession in Arlington County is a misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for marijuana charges in Arlington County General District Court. A cannabis possession lawyer Arlington County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or alternative sentencing.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia law classifies simple possession of marijuana (one ounce or less) as a civil violation punishable by a $25 fine. However, possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession with intent to distribute is a felony. The law changed significantly in 2021, creating a complex legal field where old charges may still be prosecuted under prior statutes. Understanding the exact amount, packaging, and circumstances is critical for any cannabis possession lawyer Arlington County building a defense.
For official statute text, see Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Arlington County General District Court website.
- Secure representation from a cannabis arrest lawyer Arlington County immediately after charge or arrest.
- Your attorney will file a motion for discovery to review the prosecution’s evidence, including lab reports and officer testimony.
- Defense strategies may include challenging the legality of the search, the chain of custody of the evidence, or the accuracy of the amount alleged.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, diversion program, or dismissal based on the case’s weaknesses.
- If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare for and represent you at trial in Arlington County General District Court.
In Arlington County, cannabis possession of more than one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, though first offenses often result in lesser penalties.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz & <1 lb | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Suspension | Felony record, mandatory minimums for certain amounts |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to cannabis possession defense. The firm’s tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects its commitment to vigorous representation. With a documented history of favorable outcomes in Arlington County, the firm’s attorneys understand the local court procedures and prosecution strategies.
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
The firm’s secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the managing attorney and former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997. His background in accounting and information systems provides an edge in cases involving financial or technical evidence. The firm has achieved 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed/not guilty and 10 reduced/amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment Mon-Fri 8:30AM-5:00PM
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Arlington County courts. As a cannabis possession lawyer near Arlington County, we represent clients from neighborhoods including Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
FAQs: Cannabis Possession Defense in Arlington County
Is cannabis possession a crime in Arlington County, Virginia?
It depends. Possession of one ounce or less is a civil violation with a $25 fine. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound 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 Arlington County can analyze the specific amount and circumstances of your case.
Can I get a marijuana charge expunged in Arlington County?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals (nolle prosequi), and cases where charges were not brought. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A first-offense possession case resolved through a deferred disposition program may qualify for dismissal and subsequent expungement. A cannabis arrest lawyer Arlington County can file the petition in Arlington County Circuit Court if you are eligible.
What should I do if I’m arrested for cannabis possession in Arlington County?
First, remain silent and request an attorney. Do not discuss the case with law enforcement. Contact a cannabis arrest lawyer Arlington County immediately. Your attorney can advise you on bond, begin investigating the arrest circumstances (such as the legality of any search), and represent you at your initial hearing in Arlington County General District Court.
What are common defenses to a marijuana possession charge?
Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search or seizure (Fourth Amendment violation), disputing the chain of custody of the evidence, arguing the substance was not in your “possession” (actual or constructive), or proving the amount was within the legal civil limit. A skilled cannabis possession lawyer Arlington County will identify the strongest defense based on the police report and discovery.
How can a lawyer help with a first-time cannabis possession charge?
A lawyer can often negotiate for a first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which may include community service, drug education, and probation. Successful completion typically results in dismissal of the charge. An attorney ensures you meet all program requirements and can advocate for you if any violations are alleged, protecting your chance at a clean record.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Alexandria. If you are facing other charges in Arlington County, our firm also handles DUI cases and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.