Cannabis Possession Lawyer Near Me
If you are searching for a “cannabis possession lawyer near me” in the Charlottesville area, you want an attorney who understands Virginia’s evolving marijuana laws and knows how the local courts work. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents people facing cannabis-related charges throughout Central Virginia, including Albemarle County, the City of Charlottesville, and the surrounding communities. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and the firm’s Owner and Founder, leads a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring extensive combined legal experience to every case. We work to protect your rights, avoid a permanent criminal record when possible, and pursue the most favorable resolution under the facts of your situation. Reach our location at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.
Cannabis Possession in Charlottesville and Central Virginia
Virginia legalized adult possession of up to one ounce of marijuana on July 1, 2021, but possession of larger amounts remains illegal. Under Va. Code § 4.1-1100 et seq., possessing more than one ounce and up to four ounces is a civil violation punishable by a fine of up to $25. Possession of more than four ounces is a criminal offense that can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the quantity and any prior record. Public consumption of marijuana is also prohibited. If you are stopped, cited, or arrested for cannabis possession, the case will likely be heard in the Albemarle County General District Court for misdemeanors or the Albemarle County Circuit Court for felonies. Even a civil citation can have consequences for employment, housing, or professional licenses, and a criminal conviction carries the possibility of jail time, fines, and a lasting record.
In Charlottesville and the surrounding area, law enforcement agencies remain active in enforcing marijuana possession laws, especially during events like the University of Virginia’s move-in weekends, football games, and spring break. Our attorneys are familiar with the local prosecutors, police procedures, and judicial expectations in Albemarle County and neighboring jurisdictions. We evaluate every case for potential suppression issues, procedural errors, and diversion options. For first-time offenders, a deferred disposition that avoids a formal conviction may be available, possibly preserving eligibility for expungement later. Every situation is different, and we give each client individual case review from the outset.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Cannabis Possession Cases
When you work with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. on a cannabis possession matter, we start by listening. We want to understand what happened, what evidence the Commonwealth may have, and what outcome matters most to you. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team then build a defense strategy tailored to the charges. That may involve challenging the legality of a search or seizure, questioning the chain of custody of the alleged substance, or negotiating with the prosecutor for a reduction, diversion, or dismissal. Throughout the process, we explain your options in plain language and keep you informed of developments.
Because Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor, we understand how the other side approaches a cannabis possession case. We use that insight to anticipate the prosecution’s arguments and to identify the strongest points in your defense. Our attorneys appear regularly in Virginia courts, including the Albemarle County General District Court and Circuit Court, and we are prepared to take a case to trial if that is in your best interest. At the same time, we recognize that many people value a resolution that minimizes disruption to their lives, and we work hard to negotiate alternatives to a conviction whenever the facts and the law allow. Reach our location at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation about your specific circumstances.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. He has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, Mr. Sris has extensive experience in criminal defense and keeps his caseload small so he can be directly involved in every matter. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). A background in accounting and information systems further strengthens his ability to handle complex cases.
Working alongside Mr. Sris is a team of Of Counsel attorneys who share the firm’s commitment to thorough preparation and client-focused representation. Every attorney associated with the firm brings extensive courtroom experience. Our Richmond location, by appointment only, serves Charlottesville and all of Central Virginia. We answer calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can reach us whenever you need to speak with someone about a cannabis possession charge or any other criminal matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for cannabis possession in Virginia?
Adult possession of up to one ounce is legal. Between one and four ounces is a civil violation with a fine up to $25. Possession of more than four ounces is a criminal offense—generally a misdemeanor for a first offense, but felony charges can apply depending on the amount and prior record. Public consumption remains illegal and carries its own penalties.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against cannabis possession charges?
A defense may challenge whether law enforcement had lawful grounds for a search or seizure, whether the substance was properly tested and identified, or whether procedural rules were followed. In some cases, a diversion or first-offender program may be available. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts to build the strong $1.
Can a cannabis possession charge be expunged in Virginia?
Expungement under Virginia Code § 19.2-392.2 is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi, but generally not for convictions. If a charge is dismissed through a deferred disposition, expungement may be possible. Each case is different, and an attorney can advise you on whether your specific situation qualifies.
Do I need a lawyer for a cannabis possession charge in Albemarle County?
You are not required to have an attorney, but having one can make a significant difference. Even a civil citation can create a record, and a criminal charge can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent mark on your record. A lawyer can identify defenses, negotiate with the prosecutor, and work toward a result that minimizes long-term consequences.
How do I find a cannabis possession lawyer near Charlottesville?
Look for a lawyer who handles criminal defense in the local courts and understands the specific Virginia laws on cannabis. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., through our Richmond location, serves Charlottesville and all of Central Virginia. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your case.
What should I do if I am charged with cannabis possession in Virginia?
Remain silent about the facts of your case except when speaking with your attorney. Preserve any documents or evidence. Contact a criminal defense lawyer promptly to discuss your legal options and the next steps in the court process.
For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Legal Resources
For more information about Virginia cannabis laws and court procedures, you may find these authoritative sources helpful:
- Virginia Cannabis Control Act (Va. Code Title 4.1, Chapter 11)
- Albemarle County Circuit Court
- Virginia Expungement Law (Va. Code § 19.2-392.2)
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.