Marijuana Possession Lawyer Lexington, VA
You’re a student at Virginia Military Institute or Washington and Lee University. A routine interaction draws law enforcement attention, and before you know it you’re facing a marijuana possession charge because the amount exceeded what Virginia law now allows. A conviction—even a misdemeanor—can disrupt your education, threaten your professional license, and follow you for years. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel defend individuals in Lexington General District Court and throughout Rockbridge County. If you’re dealing with a marijuana possession case in Lexington, call us at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Marijuana Laws in Virginia After 2021
Virginia legalized adult-use possession of cannabis in 2021, but the law draws bright lines. Only adults 21 and older may lawfully possess up to one ounce of marijuana, and even then consumption must occur in private. Possession of amounts above the legal limit can still result in criminal charges, and public consumption or possession by a person under 21 remains prohibited. In Lexington, those charges are heard at Lexington General District Court, located at 2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450. The court sits within the Twenty-fifth Judicial District and handles all misdemeanor marijuana trials and felony preliminary hearings.
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a fine.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-11. Virginia Law § 18.2-11
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
Even a first-time marijuana possession charge where the amount triggers criminal exposure can subject you to jail time and a permanent record. The firm’s approach evaluates every detail—how the cannabis was discovered, whether law enforcement followed required procedures, and whether the quantity can be challenged—to work toward a dismissal or reduction.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Marijuana Possession Cases
When you engage Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., your case receives attention from an experienced team that understands both the courtroom and the college-town dynamic of Lexington. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel review the Commonwealth’s evidence, examine police reports for constitutional violations, and explore every procedural option available under Virginia law. Because Lexington is home to two universities, the firm is familiar with the heightened stakes students face—disciplinary proceedings, loss of scholarships, and federal financial aid consequences—and coordinates defense strategy with those realities in mind.
The legal process typically begins with an appearance in Lexington General District Court. The firm’s attorneys assess whether the charge can be resolved at the district-court level or, if necessary, advanced to Lexington Circuit Court for a jury trial. In many marijuana possession matters, early intervention leads to an outcome that avoids a conviction altogether—through a deferred disposition, a reduction to a non-criminal infraction, or an agreement with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to amend the charge. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to every defensive effort. Results may vary.
Lexington General District Court is currently presided over by Hon. Christopher M. Billias. Court hours: Mon-Fri 8:00AM-4:00PM. Counsel appearing on criminal matters should plan filings accordingly.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal defense since 1997. A former prosecutor, he draws on insight from the other side of the courtroom to anticipate the Commonwealth’s approach and build a well-prepared defense. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and maintains a multi-state practice from the firm’s Shenandoah Valley location.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys contribute extensive courtroom experience, including former law-enforcement and prosecutorial backgrounds. Together with Mr. Sris, they have handled criminal matters across Virginia, including cases in Lexington City. The firm has documented 13 case results in Lexington City, all with favorable outcomes—dismissals, reductions, or amendments. To discuss your situation and how the firm can help, call (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana legal in Virginia?
Adults 21 and older may legally possess up to one ounce of cannabis in a private residence. Virginia legalized adult possession and limited home cultivation in 2021 (Va. Code § 4.1-1100 et seq.). Possession of more than one ounce by an adult, any possession by a person under 21, and public consumption remain unlawful. Lexington police can still charge individuals who carry amounts above the statutory limit or consume cannabis in a public space.
What happens if I’m charged with marijuana possession in Lexington?
Your case will begin in Lexington General District Court, where a Class 1 misdemeanor may be charged if the quantity is above the legal amount. The court will schedule an arraignment and a trial date. A conviction carries possible jail time, fines, and a criminal record. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can appear with you, challenge the state’s evidence, and explore alternatives such as a deferred disposition or an amendment to a non-criminal offense.
Can a marijuana possession charge be expunged in Virginia?
Virginia law allows expungement for charges that end in an acquittal, a nolle prosequi, or a dismissal, but not for most convictions. If your marijuana possession case in Lexington results in a dismissal under a first-offender program or a deferred disposition, you may be eligible to petition the Lexington Circuit Court to seal the record. The firm can guide you through the expungement process under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Do I need a lawyer for a marijuana charge in Lexington, VA?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer, but facing a drug charge without counsel poses significant risks. Even a first-time marijuana offense can lead to a criminal record that affects employment, housing, and educational opportunities—especially for students at VMI or Washington and Lee. An experienced defense attorney can identify procedural errors, negotiate with the Commonwealth, and work toward a dismissal or reduction. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against marijuana possession charges?
Defense strategies often focus on the legality of the search, the accuracy of the weight measurement, or whether the officer had probable cause. An attorney can also argue that the cannabis was in a private location where adult possession is legal, challenge the chain of custody, or present mitigating evidence. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine the specific facts of your case under relevant Virginia law to develop the strongest possible response. Contact the firm at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your defense options.
Related Criminal Defense Locations
Criminal Defense Lawyer Fairfax County •
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Criminal Defense Lawyer Prince William County
Additional Virginia Legal Resources
Va. Code § 4.1-1100 – Cannabis Control Act •
Lexington General District Court •
Virginia Criminal Code (Title 18.2)
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.