Trespass Defense Lawyer Prince William County — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Prince William County is a criminal offense under Va. Code § 18.2-119, carrying potential jail time and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results in Prince William County, including charges amended to lesser offenses. A strong defense requires immediate action. Our trespass defense lawyer Prince William County is available 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Trespassing in Virginia is defined by statute as entering or remaining on the property of another without authority after having been forbidden to do so. The core law is Va. Code § 18.2-119. This is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The charge becomes more serious if it involves entering a dwelling house or if it is trespassing on church or school property. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
For official Virginia statutes, visit the Virginia Law portal. For court information, see the Prince William County General District Court website.
- Contact a trespass defense lawyer immediately after being charged or receiving a summons.
- Gather all evidence, including any written notices, witness statements, or communications with the property owner.
- Your attorney will review the Commonwealth’s evidence for weaknesses, such as lack of proper notice or mistaken identity.
- Appear at your arraignment in Prince William County General District Court with your lawyer to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, reduction, or favorable plea agreement.
- If necessary, prepare for and proceed to a bench trial in GDC or demand a jury trial in Circuit Court.
In Prince William County, a trespassing conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-119 is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespass After Forbidden (§ 18.2-119) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Trespass on Church/School Property (§ 18.2-125) | Class 3 Misdemeanor | None | Up to $500 | None | Possible enhanced penalties |
| Simple Trespass (Common Law) | Not a statutory crime | None | Civil damages possible | None | No criminal record if amended to |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of local court procedures and a commitment to vigorous defense. We focus on achieving the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation or trial.
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
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable results in trespassing cases. For example, we have successfully had charges like Concealment of Merchandise and Petit Larceny amended to trespassing, which is a significantly better outcome for the client. In other cases, we have secured outright dismissals where the evidence of being “forbidden” was insufficient. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts. We are your local trespassing charge defense lawyer Prince William County, accessible to residents of Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, and surrounding communities. Contact us 24/7 to discuss your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince William County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Trespassing is typically charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-119.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince William County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most trespassing convictions cannot be expunged, which is why seeking a dismissal or reduction with a criminal trespass dismissed lawyer Prince William County is critical.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a trespassing charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor trespassing charge can result in jail time and a permanent record that affects future opportunities. A trespass defense lawyer Prince William County can challenge the evidence and work toward a dismissal or reduction.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for trespassing?
Prince William County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trespassing trials. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time, which includes trespassing. An attorney can advise on the best court for your defense strategy.
How can a lawyer get a trespassing charge dismissed?
A skilled trespassing charge defense lawyer Prince William County can seek dismissal by proving lack of proper notice, mistaken identity, or that you had implied authority to be on the property. Negotiating with the prosecutor before trial is often the most effective path.
For more information on related defenses, see our pages on Fairfax County criminal defense and Virginia criminal defense overview. If you are also facing other charges, consider a Prince William County DUI lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.