Marijuana Possession Lawyer York County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A marijuana possession charge in York County, Virginia, is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for these charges at the York County General District Court.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
In Virginia, simple possession of marijuana is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1. Possession of up to one ounce by a person 21 years or older is a civil violation punishable by a $25 fine. However, possession of more than one ounce, or any amount by a person under 21, remains a criminal offense. For adults, possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Possession of one pound or more is a Class 5 felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | York County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court information and procedures can be found on the York County General District Court website.
Defending a Marijuana Charge in York County
Every marijuana arrest lawyer York County knows that a possession charge hinges on the legality of the search and seizure. Police must have probable cause or a valid warrant. A common defense is challenging the reason for the traffic stop or search that led to the discovery. In York County General District Court, prosecutors may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for eligible defendants, which can result in dismissal upon completion of terms.
- Secure representation from a cannabis charge defense lawyer York County immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will file a motion for discovery to review the police report, lab analysis, and body-cam footage.
- A defense strategy is built, often focusing on challenging the legality of the stop or search.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a first-offender program.
- If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare for and represent you at trial in York County General District Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in York County
In York County, criminal marijuana possession carries potential jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Possession ≤ 1 oz (21+) | 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 | Permanent criminal record |
| Possession ≥ 1 lb | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Possession (Under 21) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Required substance abuse program |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Drug Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing drug charges, including reductions and dismissals. Our team understands the local court procedures and prosecution strategies in York County.
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 history of achieving positive results in drug cases. For example, we have successfully negotiated the amendment of felony distribution charges down to simple possession. In another case, a client facing underage alcohol possession charges received a dismissal after completing community service. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including experienced criminal defense attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland prosecutor, works collaboratively to build the strongest possible defense for each client.
Contact Our York County Marijuana Possession Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients in York County. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 17. If you need a marijuana possession lawyer near Yorktown or the Grafton area, we are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve Yorktown, Grafton, Tabb, and Seaford.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
It depends on the amount. Possession of more than one ounce but less than one pound is a misdemeanor. Possession of one pound or more is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1, punishable by 1-10 years in prison.
Can I get a marijuana possession charge expunged in York County?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Virginia law allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (dropped charges). A first-offender dismissal may qualify. The petition is filed in York County Circuit Court. A cannabis charge defense lawyer York County can advise on your eligibility.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession in York County?
Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with an attorney. Contact a marijuana arrest lawyer York County from our firm 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 to protect your rights from the start.
Will I go to jail for a first-time marijuana possession charge?
Not necessarily. For a first offense of possession of more than one ounce, jail is possible but often avoidable. An experienced marijuana possession lawyer York County can frequently negotiate for alternative outcomes like probation, a first-offender program, or a reduction to a civil violation.
How can a lawyer help with a simple possession case?
A lawyer examines the evidence for constitutional violations, such as an illegal search. They negotiate with the prosecutor for the best possible disposition, which could be a dismissal, reduction, or diversion program. Without a lawyer, you may miss these opportunities and face harsher penalties.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our York County DUI Lawyer or Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer. Learn more about our firm on our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.