Marijuana Possession Lawyer Shenandoah — What Are Your Defense Options?
Marijuana possession in Shenandoah County is a criminal 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. has 12 documented results in Shenandoah County. A skilled marijuana possession lawyer Shenandoah can challenge the evidence and seek alternatives to conviction.
Virginia Marijuana Possession Law
Simple possession of marijuana is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-250.1. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500 for a first offense. Subsequent offenses or possession of more than one ounce can increase the severity. The law distinguishes between simple possession and possession with intent to distribute, which is a felony. Understanding this statute is the first step a cannabis charge defense lawyer Shenandoah will take in building your defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Shenandoah County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-250.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filing information can be found on the Shenandoah County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Marijuana Charges
In Shenandoah County, marijuana possession cases begin at the Shenandoah County General District Court. Prosecutors here often have specific policies regarding first-time drug offenses. A marijuana arrest lawyer Shenandoah familiar with local practices can identify whether your case is eligible for a first-offender program under Va. Code § 18.2-251, which can lead to dismissal upon completion of terms.
- Receive a summons or warrant for possession of marijuana.
- Attend your arraignment hearing at Shenandoah County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review police reports and evidence for constitutional or procedural flaws.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a diversion program.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for a bench trial in General District Court.
- You have an automatic right to appeal for a new jury trial in Shenandoah County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Shenandoah County
In Shenandoah County, a first-offense marijuana possession charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine, plus a six-month driver’s license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense (≤ 1 oz) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Criminal record, possible drug education |
| Second Offense (≤ 1 oz) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Enhanced penalties, longer record |
| Possession > 1 oz | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | 6-month mandatory suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
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 attorney experience to your case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a marijuana charge can impact your job, education, and future, and we provide a focused defense to protect your rights.
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 results in drug possession cases. In Shenandoah County, we have 12 documented criminal case results. For example, in Fairfax County, our attorneys have successfully negotiated amendments of felony distribution charges down to simple possession. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex drug cases is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who provides strategic oversight.
Marijuana Possession Defense Near Shenandoah County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients throughout the Shenandoah Valley, including those facing charges at the Shenandoah County General District Court. We are your local marijuana possession lawyer near Shenandoah County, accessible via I-81 and Route 11. We serve the communities of Woodstock, Edinburg, Strasburg, Mount Jackson, Toms Brook, and New Market.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103
Woodstock, VA 22664
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana possession a felony in Virginia?
No, simple possession of one ounce or less of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. However, possession of more than one ounce is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-250.1.
Can I get a first-time offender program for marijuana in Shenandoah County?
It depends. Virginia law (§ 18.2-251) allows for a first-offender disposition for simple possession. If you complete terms like community service and drug education, the charge can be dismissed. A cannabis charge defense lawyer Shenandoah can petition the court for this option.
Will I lose my driver’s license for a marijuana possession charge?
Yes. Va. Code § 18.2-259.1 mandates a six-month driver’s license suspension for any drug conviction, including misdemeanor marijuana possession, even if no vehicle was involved.
Can a marijuana charge be expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. If your charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or you complete a first-offender program, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A marijuana arrest lawyer Shenandoah can guide you through this process.
What should I do if I’m arrested for marijuana possession?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not discuss the case with police. Then, contact a marijuana possession lawyer Shenandoah immediately. An attorney can protect your rights, challenge the stop or search, and begin building your defense strategy before your first court date.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Shenandoah County and criminal defense in nearby Frederick County. For a broader overview of our services, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific case.