Cannabis Possession Lawyer Manassas, VA
At the Manassas General District Court, located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110 (Criminal Division: (703) 792-6141), misdemeanor cannabis possession cases are adjudicated. If you are facing a cannabis possession charge in Manassas, Virginia, understanding the local court process and your legal options can help you make informed decisions. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense representation for individuals charged with cannabis-related offenses before this court. Call (888) 437-7747 to speak with a member of our team. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Cannabis Possession Means in Manassas
Although Virginia legalized adult possession of up to one ounce of marijuana effective July 1, 2021, possession above that amount remains regulated by law. The Manassas General District Court hears misdemeanor-level possession cases, while more serious felony-level charges are heard in the Manassas Circuit Court. A cannabis possession conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, affecting employment, housing, and professional licensing. Legal representation can help protect your rights and future.
Under Virginia law (Va. Code § 4.1-1100 et seq.), adults 21 and older may possess up to one ounce of marijuana; possession of more than one ounce but less than four ounces is a civil infraction subject to a $25 fine, and possession of four ounces or more is a criminal offense.
Source: Virginia Cannabis Control Act. Va. Code Title 4.1, Chapter 11.
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
The consequences for a criminal possession charge depend on the amount, whether there are any prior convictions, and other factors specific to the case. The Manassas Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these matters, and the local court follows standard Virginia criminal procedure. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team are familiar with the procedures in the Manassas courts and can explain how the law applies to your situation.
How Cannabis Possession Cases Proceed in Manassas Courts
When a person is arrested for cannabis possession in Manassas, the case begins with an initial appearance before a magistrate, where bond is set; personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. The case then proceeds to the Manassas General District Court for a trial or, in felony matters, a preliminary hearing. If the charge is a felony, it will be certified to the Manassas Circuit Court for further proceedings.
Defendants have the right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time. Throughout the process, the court may consider pretrial diversion or deferred disposition, depending on the facts of the case. An experienced defense attorney can assess whether a charge might be eligible for a first-offender program or other alternative resolution, with the goal of avoiding a conviction. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle cannabis possession cases at every stage, from arraignment through trial.
What to Expect When Working with Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel
After you contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., a member of the team will discuss the details of your charge and explain the likely court timeline. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel then review the evidence, including the circumstances of the traffic stop or encounter that led to the charge, the handling of any evidence, and any potential procedural or legal defenses. The aim is to build a well-prepared defense while negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney where appropriate.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel maintain regular communication with clients and appear in person at all scheduled court dates. Because Mr. Sris keeps his personal caseload small, each matter receives focused attention. The team draws on over 120 years of combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel and 4,739+ documented firm-wide results to address both the legal and practical dimensions of each case. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He works alongside a dedicated Of Counsel team that includes attorneys with backgrounds as former prosecutors and law enforcement. The team’s combined experience includes thousands of criminal defense matters, giving clients the benefit of deep factual and procedural analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for cannabis possession in Manassas, Virginia?
Possession of up to one ounce by adults is legal under Virginia law; possession of more than one ounce but less than four ounces is a civil infraction punishable by a $25 fine, while possession of four ounces or more can result in criminal charges carrying possible jail time and fines. The exact penalty for a criminal possession conviction depends on the quantity and the defendant’s prior record. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a fine. The matter is heard at the Manassas General District Court or the Manassas Circuit Court if it is a felony. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can a cannabis possession charge be expunged in Manassas?
Virginia law allows expungement for charges that result in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. If a cannabis possession charge is dismissed after a deferred disposition or for any other reason, an expungement petition may be filed in the Manassas Circuit Court. A conviction generally cannot be expunged. Contact Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747 to discuss whether expungement may be available in your case.
How can a lawyer defend against cannabis possession charges in Manassas?
Defense strategies may include challenging the legality of the traffic stop or search, examining how evidence was handled, and negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to reduce or dismiss charges. An attorney may also raise procedural issues, such as whether the amount of marijuana was properly measured, or whether the defendant qualifies for a first-offender program. The specific approach depends on the facts of the case. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team review each case thoroughly to identify the most effective defense.
Do I need a lawyer for a cannabis possession charge in Manassas?
Yes; even a minor cannabis possession charge can lead to a criminal record, fines, and other long-term consequences. An attorney can help you understand the charges, negotiate with the prosecutor, and represent you in court. Without legal representation, you risk missing defenses or procedural protections that could lead to a more favorable outcome. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am arrested for cannabis possession in Manassas?
If you are arrested, remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact an attorney as soon as possible. Do not discuss the facts of the case with anyone other than your lawyer. Preserve any evidence or documents that may be relevant. Prompt legal guidance can be critical because court deadlines and procedural requirements begin immediately after arrest. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Does Virginia’s legalization of marijuana mean I cannot be charged with possession?
No; while simple possession of up to one ounce is legal for adults, possession above that amount, possession in a public place, possession by someone under 21, or possession with intent to distribute remain criminal or civil offenses. Legalization does not mean all marijuana-related conduct is lawful. Even a civil infraction for 1-4 ounces can result in a fine, and repeated violations may have additional consequences. A defense attorney can explain how the current law applies to your specific circumstances.
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For official sources on Virginia cannabis law and Manassas court procedures, visit
Va. Code Title 4.1, Chapter 11 and
Manassas General District Court.
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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.