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. A strong defense often challenges the prosecution’s proof of intent or lack of proper notice.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Trespassing Law and Defenses
Criminal trespass in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-119. The statute makes it unlawful to enter or remain on the property of another, including lands, buildings, or vehicles, after having been forbidden to do so. This can be done orally, in writing, or by posted signs. The prosecution must prove you entered or remained without authority and that you had notice you were not allowed. Defenses often focus on lack of intent, insufficient notice, or that you had a legitimate right to be present. Cases are heard at the Arlington County General District Court.
- Secure representation immediately after receiving a summons or warrant.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports and evidence.
- A defense strategy is built, often challenging intent or the validity of the trespass warning.
- Your attorney negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a possible dismissal or reduction.
- If no favorable plea is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC.
Penalties for Trespassing in Arlington County
In Arlington County, criminal trespass is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, plus a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Trespass (Va. Code § 18.2-119) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record; can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Arlington County Trespass Cases
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local procedures at the Arlington County General District Court and the strategies employed by the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. Mr. Sris’s unique background in accounting and information systems provides an advantage in cases involving complex evidence.
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 team has achieved documented results in Arlington County courts. For example, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges like Destruction of Property Under $1000 and Fare Evasion in Arlington County General District Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. A criminal trespass dismissed lawyer Arlington County from our firm will work to challenge the evidence against you. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Arlington County Trespass Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209 serves clients facing charges at the Arlington County Courthouse. We represent individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Contact: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
Trespassing Charge Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for trespassing in Arlington County, Virginia?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The penalty for criminal trespass in Arlington County is up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, as defined under Va. Code § 18.2-119. All cases are prosecuted in Arlington County General District Court.
Can a trespassing charge be dismissed in Arlington County?
Yes. A trespassing charge defense lawyer Arlington County can seek dismissal by challenging whether the prosecution can prove you had proper notice not to enter or remain on the property. Lack of intent or insufficient evidence are common grounds for dismissal or a nolle prosequi.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing misdemeanor?
It depends. While you can represent yourself, a conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect future opportunities. An experienced attorney can often negotiate for a dismissal, reduced charge, or alternative disposition that avoids a conviction, which is far more difficult to achieve without counsel.
What is the difference between trespassing and burglary?
Trespassing (Va. Code § 18.2-119) involves entering or remaining on property without authority. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) involves entering a building at night with the intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Burglary is a far more serious felony charge.
How does a trespass defense lawyer help my case?
A lawyer investigates the facts, reviews police reports for errors, examines the validity of any posted warnings, and challenges the element of intent. They negotiate with the prosecutor for the best possible outcome and are prepared to defend you at trial if necessary.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Alexandria. If you are facing other charges, explore our services for DUI defense in Arlington.