Marijuana Possession Lawyer Greene County, VA

Virginia’s approach to marijuana possession changed significantly on July 1, 2021, but certain possession remains a criminal offense. Under Va. Code § 4.1‑1100, adults 21 and older may lawfully possess up to one ounce of cannabis. Possession of amounts exceeding one ounce, however, can lead to civil penalties or criminal charges depending on the quantity and circumstances. In Greene County, these cases are heard at the Greene County General District Court or the Greene County Circuit Court, and a conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrate their practice on defending individuals facing marijuana possession charges in Greene County. From challenging the legality of a search to pursuing a first-offender deferred disposition under Va. Code § 18.2‑251, the firm works to achieve a favorable resolution for every client. To request a consultation about a marijuana possession matter in Greene County, contact the firm at (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Marijuana Possession Means in Greene County

The Greene County General District Court handles all misdemeanor marijuana possession cases and felony preliminary hearings, while the Greene County Circuit Court presides over felony jury trials and appeals from the General District Court. Marijuana possession charges in Greene County are classified by the amount of cannabis involved. Possession of up to one ounce by an adult 21 or older is legal. Possession of one to four ounces is a civil violation subject to a fine of up to $25. Possession of more than four ounces is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Virginia Code § 18.2‑8. In practice, a first-offense possession of over four ounces may qualify for deferred disposition under Va. Code § 18.2‑251, which allows a person to complete probationary conditions in exchange for dismissal of the charge.

Greene County is part of the Sixteenth Judicial District. The courthouse is at 85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville, VA 22973, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes criminal cases on behalf of the state. Because Greene County is a smaller jurisdiction, the court’s calendar and the availability of diversion programs can differ from those in larger Northern Virginia counties. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have experience appearing before the Greene County bench and understand the local practices that can affect the resolution of a marijuana possession case.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Marijuana Possession Cases

The firm’s approach to a marijuana possession charge in Greene County begins with a thorough review of the evidence and the circumstances of the arrest. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine whether law enforcement had reasonable suspicion or probable cause to stop, search, or seize evidence. If a constitutional violation occurred, the firm moves to suppress the evidence. In cases where the evidence is strong, the attorneys negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to reduce the charge or secure a deferred disposition. For a first offense, the firm often advocates for the deferred disposition program under Va. Code § 18.2‑251, which can result in dismissal of the charge after completion of probation. The firm’s collective background—Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor, and the Of Counsel team includes a former Virginia State Trooper—provides a practical understanding of how the prosecution and law enforcement build a case, which informs the firm’s defense strategy.

Because Virginia does not have judicial plea bargaining, the Commonwealth’s Attorney makes all charging decisions. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel present mitigating evidence, legal arguments, and eligibility for first-offender treatment directly to the prosecutor. Through experienced negotiation, the firm aims to keep a conviction off the client’s record. Following a dismissal or acquittal, the firm assists clients with expungement under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2, a process that removes the arrest and court records from public view.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997 and has practiced criminal defense for over two decades. He is a former prosecutor and is admitted to the bars of 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 bring extensive combined legal experience, with backgrounds that include former prosecution and law enforcement service. In Greene County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has obtained a dismissal for a client in the Greene County General District Court. Results may vary.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current law on marijuana possession in Virginia?

As of July 1, 2021, adults 21 and older may lawfully possess up to one ounce of cannabis in a private residence or other lawful location under Va. Code § 4.1‑1100. Possession of one to four ounces is a civil violation punishable by a fine of up to $25. Possession of more than four ounces remains a Class 1 misdemeanor, with potential penalties of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Public consumption of marijuana is prohibited. These rules apply throughout Greene County, and anyone charged with a marijuana‑related offense should understand the exact charge and the applicable penalty range.

What are the penalties for marijuana possession in Greene County?

A marijuana possession charge in Greene County that involves more than four ounces is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. For quantities between one and four ounces, the matter is a civil violation with a maximum fine of $25. A first-offense criminal charge may be eligible for deferred disposition under Va. Code § 18.2‑251, which can result in dismissal upon successful completion of probation. Because a conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and educational opportunities, it is important to address the charge carefully.

Can a marijuana possession charge be expunged in Greene County?

Yes, a marijuana possession charge that is dismissed, acquitted, or nolle prossed can be expunged under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2. The petition is filed in the Greene County Circuit Court. Expungement removes the police and court records of the charge from public access. A conviction cannot be expunged under this statute, which is why pursuing a dismissal through a deferred disposition or other pretrial resolution is often a priority. Because Virginia law limits expungement to non‑convictions, early defense involvement is critical.

How does a lawyer defend against marijuana possession charges?

A lawyer defends against marijuana possession by challenging the legality of the stop, search, and seizure, examining the chain of custody of the evidence, and negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or deferred disposition. If the police lacked reasonable suspicion or probable cause, the attorney files a motion to suppress, which can lead to dismissal. In cases where the evidence is strong, the lawyer may present mitigating factors—such as the defendant’s lack of prior record—to secure a first-offender deferred disposition under Va. Code § 18.2‑251. Every defense is tailored to the specific facts of the case and the practices of the Greene County court.

What should I do if I am facing marijuana possession charges in Greene County?

Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately and do not discuss the case with anyone other than your attorney. Preserve any documents, receipts, or communications that may be relevant. Do not post about the charge on social media. The statute of limitations and court scheduling in Greene County require prompt action to protect your rights. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are available to discuss your situation at (888) 437‑7747.

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

Yes, because even a misdemeanor marijuana possession conviction can result in jail time, a permanent criminal record, and collateral consequences that affect employment, housing, and professional licensing. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether the charge qualifies for a first-offender deferred disposition, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and negotiate a favorable resolution with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Self‑representation at the Greene County General District Court carries significant risk, especially when the prosecution is seeking a conviction that cannot later be expunged.

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