Trespass Defense Lawyer Arlington County — Can Your Charge Be Dismissed?
A trespassing charge in Arlington County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-119, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients at Arlington County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Trespassing Law and Your Defense
Trespassing in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-119. The law prohibits entering or remaining on the property of another, including lands, buildings, or vehicles, after having been forbidden to do so, either orally or in writing, by the owner, lessee, custodian, or other authorized person. The prosecution must prove you had notice that you were not permitted to be there. A trespassing charge defense lawyer Arlington County can examine whether proper notice was given and if the alleged property meets the legal definition. Founded in 1997, our firm’s experience includes cases where the accused lacked the required criminal intent.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-119 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found at the Arlington County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Trespassing Charge
In Arlington County, trespassing cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Arlington County General District Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). Prosecutors often rely on police reports and witness statements from property owners. A criminal trespass dismissed lawyer Arlington County knows that early intervention can lead to favorable outcomes before a trial is necessary.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a trespassing charge.
- Attend your arraignment hearing at Arlington County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including police reports and witness statements, to identify defense strategies.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a potential dismissal, reduction, or favorable plea agreement.
- Prepare for and present your defense at trial if a satisfactory agreement cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Arlington County
In Arlington County, a trespassing conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing (Va. Code § 18.2-119) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record, possible impact on employment and housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a track record of achieving positive results for clients facing misdemeanor charges in Northern Virginia. Our approach is to build a case-specific defense that challenges the elements the Commonwealth must prove.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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 achieved documented results in Arlington County courts. In one case, a trespassing charge was dismissed (nolle prosequi) after our attorney demonstrated a lack of proper notice from the property owner. In another, a charge was amended to a lesser offense. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Trespass Defense Lawyer Near Arlington County
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209 serves clients at the Arlington County Courthouse. We represent individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am charged with trespassing in Arlington County?
Do not speak to police or property owners without an attorney. Contact a trespass defense lawyer Arlington County immediately. Your attorney can request evidence, assess the strength of the case, and begin building your defense before your first court date.
Can a trespassing charge be dismissed in Arlington County?
Yes. A criminal trespass dismissed lawyer Arlington County can seek dismissal by challenging whether you were lawfully forbidden from the property or if you had the required intent. Lack of evidence or procedural errors can also lead to a nolle prosequi (drop) of the charge.
What is the difference between criminal trespass and unlawful entry?
It depends on the statute and intent. Criminal trespass under § 18.2-119 involves entering or remaining after being forbidden. Unlawful entry under § 18.2-128 involves entering to commit a misdemeanor. The charges and potential defenses differ, so an attorney must review the specific facts of your case.
Will a trespassing conviction go on my permanent record?
Yes. A conviction for trespassing is a Class 1 misdemeanor and creates a permanent criminal record in Virginia. This record can be found by employers and landlords during background checks, which is why seeking a dismissal or reduction is critical.
How can a trespassing charge defense lawyer Arlington County help me?
A lawyer examines the notice given, your intent, and the property status. They negotiate with prosecutors, file motions to suppress evidence, and represent you at trial. An experienced attorney aims to get the charge dismissed or reduced to avoid jail time and a permanent record.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI defense in Arlington County and family law matters. For more information on criminal defense statewide, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Alexandria.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.