Trespassing Lawyer Albemarle County — Defending Unlawful Entry Charges
A trespassing charge in Albemarle County is a criminal offense under Virginia law, carrying potential jail time and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for unlawful entry charges at the Albemarle County General District Court. Our trespassing lawyer Albemarle County team has documented results in this jurisdiction. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Trespassing Law and Penalties
Trespassing in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-119, which prohibits entering or remaining on the property of another without authority after being forbidden to do so. This statute forms the basis for most unlawful entry charges in Albemarle County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-119 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Albemarle County General District Court website.
Defending a Trespass Charge in Albemarle County
Prosecutors at the Albemarle County General District Court must prove you entered or remained on property without authority. A common defense is lack of proper notice or permission that was later revoked. The court at 350 Park Street handles these misdemeanor trials.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a trespassing charge.
- Appear for arraignment at Albemarle County General District Court.
- Review the evidence with your attorney, focusing on notice and intent.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- Address any sentencing or expungement matters post-disposition.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Albemarle County
In Albemarle County, simple trespassing under § 18.2-119 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| 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 | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Aggravated Trespass (e.g., after being forbidden with a weapon) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of firearm rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Albemarle County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented result in Albemarle County: one charge reduced/amended, resulting in a 100% favorable outcome rate for this locality. Our trespass charge defense lawyer Albemarle County team understands the local court procedures.
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
Case Results for Trespass and Related Charges
Our firm has handled cases where trespassing was a favorable resolution. For example, we have successfully amended charges of concealment of merchandise to trespassing in other Virginia jurisdictions. In Albemarle County, we have one documented criminal defense result with a favorable outcome. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Trespassing Lawyer Near Albemarle County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Albemarle County General District Court in Charlottesville. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 29. We serve the Charlottesville area, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment. By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Trespassing Charges in Albemarle County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Albemarle County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Albemarle County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Trespassing under Va. Code § 18.2-119 is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Albemarle County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Albemarle County Circuit Court after a favorable case outcome.
How does bail work in Albemarle County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like simple trespass. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to the Albemarle County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a trespass charge in Albemarle County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor trespass charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Albemarle County General District Court. A trespass charge defense lawyer Albemarle County can protect your rights.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Albemarle County?
The Albemarle County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trespass trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Albemarle County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Related Legal Information
If you need a Virginia criminal defense lawyer, visit our state hub. For defense in nearby areas, see our pages for Henrico County and Chesterfield County. For other legal needs in Albemarle County, we also assist with DUI charges and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.