Cannabis Possession Lawyer Gloucester County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple marijuana possession in Gloucester County is a Class 1 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. has 9 documented case results in Gloucester County.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical cannabis certification. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of up to one ounce by a person 21 or older is subject to a civil penalty, not criminal charges. However, possession of more than one ounce, possession by a minor, or possession with intent to distribute remains a criminal offense. The penalties escalate based on the amount and the defendant’s prior record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Gloucester County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Gloucester County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Marijuana Charge
In Gloucester County, a marijuana possession charge begins with an arrest or summons. The case is heard at the Gloucester County General District Court at 7400 Justice Drive. Prosecutors here often consider first-offender programs for simple possession. A cannabis arrest lawyer Gloucester County can file motions to suppress evidence if the search violated your Fourth Amendment rights.
- Receive a summons or be arrested and taken before a magistrate.
- Attend your arraignment in Gloucester County GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney files pre-trial motions, such as a motion to suppress.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or diversion program.
- Proceed to trial or accept a plea agreement based on the strength of the defense.
- If convicted, explore appeal options to the Gloucester County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Cannabis Possession
In Gloucester County, simple marijuana possession (first offense, one ounce or less) is a civil penalty with a $25 fine. Criminal possession carries penalties from 30 days to 40 years in prison, depending on the amount and intent.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (21+) | Civil Violation | None | $25 | None | No criminal record |
| Possession > 1 oz (1st offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Criminal record |
| Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID) | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Felony record, asset forfeiture risk |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a marijuana charge can affect your employment, education, and driver’s license. Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, builds defenses focused on challenging the stop, search, and chain of custody of the alleged evidence.
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
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive outcomes. In one case, a charge of Underage Alcohol Possession in Bedford County was taken under advisement and dismissed after the client completed 50 hours of community service. In Essex County, a charge for No Registration Card/License in Possession was dismissed outright. In Fairfax County, a similar charge was nolle prosequi (dropped by the prosecutor).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Gloucester County Cannabis Possession Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Gloucester County and is accessible via Route 17 and Route 14. We are your local cannabis possession lawyer near Gloucester County Courthouse, serving Gloucester and Gloucester Point. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Gloucester County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Gloucester County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Gloucester County General District Court (7400 Justice Drive, Room 102, Gloucester, VA 23061). 9 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Gloucester County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Gloucester County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 9 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Gloucester County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Gloucester County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Gloucester County General District Court (7400 Justice Drive, Room 102, Gloucester, VA 23061). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 9 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Gloucester County?
Gloucester County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Gloucester County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Gloucester County General District Court (7400 Justice Drive, Room 102, Gloucester, VA 23061) is the GDC location.
Is simple marijuana possession still a crime in Virginia?
No, for adults 21 and over, possession of one ounce or less of marijuana is a civil violation with a $25 fine, not a crime. However, possession of more than one ounce, possession by a minor, or possession with intent to distribute (PWID) remains a criminal offense with potential jail time and a permanent record.
Related Legal Services in Gloucester County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI/DWI in Gloucester County, divorce and family law matters, and reckless driving tickets. For a full overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.