Trespassing Lawyer Virginia, VA
If you are facing a trespassing charge in Virginia, the stakes are serious — a conviction can mean jail time, fines, and a lasting criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., practicing since 1997, represents clients throughout the Commonwealth in misdemeanor trespass matters under Va. Code § 18.2-119. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team appear in Virginia’s General District Courts and Circuit Courts, from Fairfax and Arlington to Richmond and the Shenandoah Valley. We understand how local prosecutors handle trespass cases and work to protect your rights at every stage. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Trespassing Means in Virginia
Under Virginia law, trespass after being forbidden is a criminal offense. Codified at Va. Code § 18.2-119, the statute makes it unlawful to go onto or remain on another person’s land, building, or premises after having been told to leave — either orally, in writing, or by a posted sign — by the owner, lessee, or an authorized person. Trespass prosecutions are handled in the General District Court of the locality where the incident occurred. Because a conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor, it carries serious consequences, and the case is heard by a judge, not a jury, in the first instance.
Under Va. Code § 18.2-119, trespass after being forbidden is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-119. Virginia Code § 18.2-119
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes trespass cases on behalf of the locality, and the court may impose not only active jail time and fines but also probation, community service, and other conditions. Beyond the immediate penalties, a trespass conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and security clearances. Early involvement by an experienced Virginia criminal defense attorney is critical, as pre‑trial negotiation and thorough preparation often produce more favorable outcomes.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Trespassing Cases
When you engage Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team begin by analyzing every element of the charge. We examine the prosecution’s evidence — the alleged notice to leave, the identity of the person who gave it, the sufficiency of any posted signs, and the circumstances of your presence. Virginia trespass law requires proof that you were forbidden to be on the property and that you remained or returned after that notice. Many cases turn on whether the Commonwealth can establish the required notice beyond a reasonable doubt.
Our approach is thorough and proactive. We negotiate with the prosecutor to explore alternatives — a reduction to a non‑criminal infraction, a dismissal upon completion of community service, or a deferred disposition that ultimately results in the charge being dropped. If trial is necessary, we present a well‑prepared defense in court. Because one of our Of Counsel is a former Virginia State Trooper, our team brings valuable insight into how law enforcement investigates and documents trespass complaints. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and work toward an outcome that minimizes the impact on your record and your future. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997. A former prosecutor, he has practiced criminal defense across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York for over two decades. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova) and brings that legislative awareness to every case. He is admitted to practice in all five firm jurisdictions — Virginia, Maryland, D.C., New Jersey, and New York.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense matters. Results may vary. Of Counsel attorneys are non‑employee practitioners engaged through Excella who collaborate with Mr. Sris on case strategy. Collectively, they have documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas since 1997. Results may vary. You always receive the attention of an experienced legal team working together on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am facing trespassing charges in Virginia?
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately and do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any evidence — photographs, text messages, or witness contact information — that might support your version of events. Early legal intervention often opens opportunities to resolve the matter before a permanent conviction appears on your record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can evaluate the charge and explain your options during a consultation at (888) 437-7747.
Is trespassing a felony in Virginia?
Most trespassing charges — including those under Va. Code § 18.2-119 — are Class 1 misdemeanors, not felonies. A Class 1 misdemeanor can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Certain trespass offenses involving schools, airports, or other protected locations may be charged as felonies, but the standard trespass-after-being-forbidden is a misdemeanor. The classification affects where your case is heard and the long‑term consequences on your record. For clarification of your specific charge, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing charge in Virginia?
Yes — even a misdemeanor trespass conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can limit employment, housing, and professional licenses. An experienced attorney can evaluate the prosecution’s evidence, identify defenses you may not recognize, and negotiate for a reduction or dismissal. Without counsel, you risk accepting a plea that carries consequences you cannot later undo. To discuss your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How long does a trespassing case take in Virginia?
The timeline depends on the court’s docket and the complexity of the matter. In Virginia General District Court, a misdemeanor trespass case may be resolved in a matter of weeks or months, but contested cases can take longer. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to move your case efficiently while ensuring no procedural opportunity is missed. For guidance on the likely timeline for your situation, call (888) 437-7747.
What does the prosecutor have to prove for a trespassing conviction?
The Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were forbidden to be on the property and that you went onto or remained there after that notice. Notice can be oral, written, or through a posted sign. The prosecution must also establish that the person who gave the notice had the authority to do so. Weaknesses in the notice or proof of authority are common areas of defense in Virginia trespass cases. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss the facts of your case.
Related Virginia criminal defense pages: Virginia Criminal Lawyer · Virginia Assault Lawyer · Virginia Disorderly Conduct Lawyer · Virginia Domestic Violence Lawyer
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.