Trespassing Lawyer Arlington County, VA
Being charged with trespassing in Arlington County can carry serious consequences, including potential jail time and a criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licensing. A conviction under Va. Code § 18.2‑119, trespassing after being forbidden, is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represent individuals facing trespassing accusations in Arlington County General District Court and Circuit Court. They draw on decades of defense experience to examine the facts and work toward a favorable resolution. To request a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Trespassing Means in Arlington County
Under Virginia law, trespassing is defined in Va. Code § 18.2‑119 as going upon or remaining on another’s land, building, or premises after having been forbidden to do so, either orally, in writing, or by posted sign. The offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor, with a maximum sentence of 12 months in jail and a fine. The case is heard in the Arlington County General District Court, located at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400, Arlington, VA 22201. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes the charge.
Where a trespass is charged alongside other offenses or involves a felony enhancement, the matter may proceed to the Arlington County Circuit Court. A conviction under § 18.2‑119 creates a permanent criminal record, though Virginia law permits expungement of records resulting in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal. Because an experienced lawyer can evaluate the evidence and raise defenses that a person facing the charge might not recognize, early legal review is important.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Trespassing Cases
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by reviewing every aspect of the state’s case: the basis for the claim that the individual was forbidden to enter, the existence and visibility of any posted signs, and whether the person charged had permission, implied consent, or a legal right to be on the property. They also examine law enforcement reports and witness statements to identify procedural issues, inconsistencies, or constitutional challenges that can affect the admissibility of evidence.
Because a trespassing conviction can carry immigration consequences, professional-licensure impacts, and collateral consequences under other laws, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel consider the full picture when fashioning a defense. They negotiate with the prosecutor where appropriate, explore diversion or first-offender programs when available, and, if the case proceeds to trial, advocate in court for a dismissal or acquittal. Throughout the process, they keep clients informed and explain the practical effects of each option. 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 for decades and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He is supported by experienced Of Counsel who collectively contribute their own extensive backgrounds in criminal law and courtroom advocacy. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have documented 4,739+ firm-wide results; they apply this experience to every criminal matter. Results may vary. They have documented 21 case results in Arlington County criminal cases, including 11 dismissals or not‑guilty verdicts and 10 reductions or amendments. The firm serves clients across Northern Virginia from its Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209, by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for trespassing in Arlington County, Virginia?
Trespassing after being forbidden, under Va. Code § 18.2‑119, is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Upon conviction, a person may face up to 12 months in jail and a fine. The case is prosecuted in the Arlington County General District Court, and if appealed, in the Circuit Court. A conviction also results in a permanent criminal record, although expungement may be available if the charge is dismissed or results in a nolle prosequi. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
How does an attorney defend against a trespassing charge in Virginia?
An attorney evaluates the prosecution’s evidence: whether the person charged had been properly forbidden to enter, whether a posted sign met legal requirements, and whether any right or permission to be on the property existed. The defense may challenge the credibility of witnesses, dispute the sufficiency of notice, or raise procedural violations. In Arlington County, an experienced lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor, explore diversion options, and present argument at trial. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.
What should I do if I am facing a trespassing charge in Arlington County, Virginia?
Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible and do not discuss the facts with anyone other than your lawyer. Preserve any documents, photos, or messages that may relate to the incident. A trespassing charge moves through the Arlington County General District Court, and a prompt review can affect whether the case is resolved without a conviction. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Can a trespassing charge be expunged in Arlington County?
Virginia law allows expungement of records when the charge ends in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal. If a conviction is entered, expungement is generally not available under current law, except in narrow circumstances. Petitions for expungement are filed in the Arlington County Circuit Court. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing charge in Arlington County?
While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer, a Class 1 misdemeanor trespassing conviction carries possible jail time, a fine, and a permanent criminal record. Having an attorney who practices in Arlington County courts can help identify defenses, negotiate with the prosecutor, and seek a reduction or dismissal. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.
Nearby criminal defense resources: Fairfax County Criminal Defense · Prince William County Criminal Defense · Stafford County Criminal Defense · Fauquier County Criminal Defense · Loudoun County Criminal Defense
Virginia law resources: Va. Code § 18.2‑119 (trespass after being forbidden) · Virginia Judicial System
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington Location, 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209. By appointment only. Call (888) 437‑7747.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.