Marijuana Possession Lawyer Henrico County, VA
If you are facing a marijuana possession charge in Henrico County, Virginia, you likely have questions about what the law permits and what a conviction could mean for your future. Virginia legalized adult possession of up to one ounce of cannabis in 2021, but possession of amounts above that threshold — or possession in prohibited circumstances — still leads to criminal or civil court proceedings. A charge of marijuana possession in Henrico County is handled at the Henrico County General District Court for misdemeanor-level offenses or at the Henrico County Circuit Court if the charge rises to a felony. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., a firm practicing since 1997 and serving clients throughout Virginia, represents individuals at both of these courts. Mr. Sris, the firm’s Owner and Founder, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to each marijuana possession matter. To request a consultation about your situation, reach the firm at (888) 437-7747.
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What Marijuana Possession Means in Henrico County, Virginia
Virginia’s cannabis laws changed significantly with the enactment of the Cannabis Control Act in 2021, codified at Va. Code § 4.1-1100 et seq. Today, an adult aged 21 or older may lawfully possess up to one ounce of marijuana in a private residence or other location permitted by law. However, possession of larger amounts — or possession in a public place — can still trigger enforcement. Specifically, possessing more than one ounce but not more than four ounces is a civil violation subject to a fine of up to $25, while possessing more than four ounces is treated as a criminal Class 1 misdemeanor. Public consumption remains prohibited and may lead to a separate charge. In Henrico County, law enforcement agencies such as the Henrico County Police Division and the Virginia State Police actively enforce these remaining restrictions.
A marijuana possession case in Henrico County progresses through one of two courts. The Henrico County General District Court, located at 4301 East Parham Road, Henrico, Virginia 23228, handles all misdemeanor-level marijuana charges as well as preliminary hearings for any felony-level drug charge. If a case involves a felony, the matter proceeds to the Henrico County Circuit Court for trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Henrico County prosecutes these offenses. Our Richmond location regularly appears at both courts and is familiar with the local procedural practices, including the availability of first-offender programs and deferred-disposition options that, when successfully completed, can result in dismissal of the charge.
Procedural Considerations in Henrico County
The timeline for a marijuana possession case depends on the court’s calendar and the complexity of the matter. In the General District Court, a misdemeanor trial is generally scheduled within a few weeks after the initial appearance. If the charge is appealed, or if it is a felony, the Circuit Court’s scheduling will determine when the case is heard. Our firm works to navigate these procedural steps efficiently while protecting the client’s rights at every stage.
Under Virginia law, possession of more than four ounces of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine.
Source: Va. Code § 4.1-1105.1. Va. Code § 4.1-1105.1
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How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Marijuana Possession Cases
When a client contacts Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. regarding a marijuana possession charge in Henrico County, the firm’s first step is to identify the specific offense charged and the applicable court. The firm then reviews the evidence that the Commonwealth intends to rely upon. Law enforcement procedures — including the basis for a search, the chain of custody of any seized substance, and the accuracy of any field testing — are examined for potential legal challenges. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, several of whom have prior law enforcement or prosecutorial experience, are especially familiar with the standards that must be met.
Depending on the facts of the case, the firm may pursue a motion to suppress evidence if a constitutional violation occurred, negotiate with the prosecutor for an amendment to a lesser charge, or seek entry into a first-offender program that could ultimately lead to a dismissal. If a trial is necessary, the firm is prepared to present a thorough defense at the Henrico County General District Court or Circuit Court. Throughout the process, the client receives straightforward explanations of each option. There is no charge for the initial consultation; discussions are by appointment and held at the firm’s Richmond location or by phone.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., established the firm in 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings firsthand insight into how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds a case. He is admitted to practice 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). His practice focuses on protecting clients throughout Henrico County and across Virginia. He works alongside the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, a group of experienced practitioners who contract directly with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. and are independent in their representation. Together, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to every marijuana possession case. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession still a criminal offense in Virginia after legalization?
Possession of more than four ounces of marijuana in Virginia remains a criminal Class 1 misdemeanor. Although adults 21 and older may legally possess up to one ounce of cannabis for personal use, and possession of one to four ounces is a civil violation with a fine of up to $25, amounts above four ounces are treated as a criminal offense. A conviction for a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in a jail sentence of up to 12 months and a fine. The case is heard at the Henrico County General District Court. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What are the potential consequences of a marijuana possession conviction in Henrico County?
A conviction for marijuana possession in Henrico County can include jail time, monetary fines, and a permanent criminal record. For a Class 1 misdemeanor, the maximum penalty is 12 months in jail and a fine. Beyond the immediate punishment, a criminal record may affect employment opportunities, professional licensing, and educational eligibility. Virginia law permits expungement of certain charges that were dismissed or ended in acquittal, but a conviction is generally not eligible for expungement. Early legal intervention can help you explore options that minimize long-term consequences. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can a marijuana possession charge be expunged in Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement of a marijuana possession charge only if the case ended in an acquittal, a nolle prosequi, or a dismissal — not after a conviction. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, an individual who was acquitted or whose charge was otherwise dismissed may petition the Henrico County Circuit Court to remove the police and court records. A first-offense program that results in a dismissal may also provide a path to expungement. Because the criteria are specific, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney before accepting any resolution. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his firm at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am charged with marijuana possession in Henrico County?
If you are charged with marijuana possession in Henrico County, exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney as soon as possible. Do not discuss the facts of the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any documents, photographs, or witness information that may be relevant. Appearing in court without counsel can lead to an outcome you did not anticipate, especially because Henrico County General District Court proceedings move quickly. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients at the Henrico courthouse and can review your case during a consultation. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule an appointment.
How can a lawyer help with a marijuana possession charge in Henrico County?
A lawyer can identify procedural errors, challenge evidence, and negotiate for a reduced charge or alternative disposition. An attorney with experience at the Henrico County General District Court and Circuit Court understands local practices and the expectations of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. Legal representation can make a significant difference in whether a charge is dismissed, reduced, or leads to a conviction. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys review the facts of each case thoroughly and work toward a resolution that protects the client’s future. To discuss your options, call (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Laws and Henrico County Court Resources
For authoritative statutory language, consult Va. Code § 4.1-1105.1, which defines the penalties for marijuana possession exceeding the legal limit. Information about hearing schedules and general court procedures at the Henrico County General District Court is available through Virginia’s Judicial System website. These primary sources reflect the law as currently in effect; the firm does not guarantee the accuracy of third-party content and recommends verifying details directly with the court.
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