Cannabis Possession Lawyer York County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Simple possession of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor in York County under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for cannabis possession charges at York County General District Court. Our cannabis possession lawyer York County team offers 24/7 consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | York County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Virginia law prohibits the possession of marijuana without a valid medical prescription. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Simple possession of up to one ounce is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 5 felony, carrying 1 to 10 years in prison. Possession of one pound or more is a felony with more severe penalties. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute (PWID), which is a more serious charge.
Official Resources & Court Information
For the official text of Virginia’s drug laws, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website. All misdemeanor marijuana possession cases in York County are heard at the York County General District Court located at 300 Ballard Street, Yorktown, VA 23690. The court’s phone number is (804)201-9009.
York County Court Process for Marijuana Charges
If you are charged with cannabis possession in York County, your case begins at the York County General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes the case. For first-time offenders, the court may offer a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. It is critical to have legal representation at your first court date to explore all options, including challenging the legality of the search or seizure that led to the charge.
- Arraignment: You will appear in York County General District Court to hear the formal charge and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated during the stop or search.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss the case with the prosecutor to seek a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a diversion program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court. You have the right to appeal to York County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in York County
In York County, simple marijuana possession is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession >1 oz & <1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Felony (§ 18.2-248.1) | 5-30 years | Up to $10,000 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Severe felony penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We have documented 13 case results in York County across all practice areas. Our approach is to examine every detail of your case, from the traffic stop’s legality to the chain of custody for any evidence. We understand the procedures at York County General District Court and work to protect your rights and future.
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
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes. In one case, a charge of underage alcohol possession in Bedford County was taken under advisement and dismissed after the completion of community service. In another, a “No Registration Card/License in Possession” charge in Essex County was dismissed outright. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our team, which includes seasoned attorneys like Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland prosecutor, focuses on achieving the best possible result for each client.
Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near York County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the York County General District Court. We represent individuals in Yorktown, Grafton, Tabb, and Seaford. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in York County, VA?
It depends on the amount. Possession of one ounce or less is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 5 felony. Possession of one pound or more is a more severe felony under Va. Code § 18.2-248.1.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (dropped charges) under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A first-offense possession charge that is dismissed after completing a first offender program may be eligible for expungement. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
What should I do if I’m arrested for cannabis possession in York County?
Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with your attorney. Contact a cannabis possession lawyer York County as soon as possible to begin building your defense. Your lawyer can advise you on bail, court dates, and potential strategies.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor carries up to a year in jail and creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and education. A marijuana charge defense lawyer York County can seek a first offender disposition, challenge the evidence, or negotiate a favorable outcome to avoid these consequences.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a drug charge?
York County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. If you are charged with a felony or if you appeal a misdemeanor conviction from GDC, your case goes to York County Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in York County and family law matters. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.