Trespassing Lawyer Bedford County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A trespassing charge in Bedford 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 in Bedford County courts. A skilled trespassing lawyer Bedford County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence of unlawful entry. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation.
Virginia Trespassing Law and Penalties
Trespassing in Virginia is defined as entering or remaining on the property of another without authority after being forbidden to do so, either orally or in writing, or after being told to leave. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-119. A trespass charge defense lawyer Bedford County understands that the prosecution must prove you lacked authority to be on the property and that you knew you were not allowed to be there.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s trespassing laws, refer to the official Virginia Code Title 18.2, Chapter 5. Court procedures and forms for Bedford County can be found on the Bedford County General District Court website.
Defending a Trespassing Case in Bedford County
An unlawful entry defense lawyer Bedford County will examine the specifics of your notice. In Bedford County General District Court, prosecutors must prove you received adequate notice. A common defense is that you had implied or actual permission to be present. Another is that the property was not properly posted or that you were not personally told to leave.
- Receive a summons or warrant for trespassing under Va. Code § 18.2-119.
- Appear for arraignment at Bedford County General District Court (123 East Main Street).
- Your lawyer will review the evidence, focusing on the “notice” element of the charge.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal if the notice was deficient.
- Prepare for trial to argue before a judge if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- If convicted in GDC, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Bedford County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Virginia
In Bedford County, a trespassing conviction as a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Trespass (Va. Code § 18.2-119) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Permanent Criminal Record |
| Trespass on School Property (§ 18.2-128) | Class 3 Misdemeanor | N/A | Up to $500 | Permanent Criminal Record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Trespassing Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We focus on building a strong defense by scrutinizing the details of how the alleged trespass occurred and the evidence of notice provided.
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 and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of defending clients in Bedford County. In one case, a client facing a concealment charge saw it amended to trespassing, resulting in a more favorable outcome. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact a Trespassing Lawyer Bedford County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Bedford County courts. We are a trespassing lawyer near Bedford, Forest, and Smith Mountain Lake. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for trespassing in Bedford County, VA?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Trespassing under Va. Code § 18.2-119 is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The exact penalty depends on your record and the case facts.
Can a trespassing charge be dropped in Bedford County?
It depends. A trespass charge defense lawyer Bedford County can seek a dismissal if the prosecution lacks evidence that you were given proper notice not to be on the property. Negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney may lead to a dismissal or reduction.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time trespassing charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor can result in jail time and creates a permanent public record. An unlawful entry defense lawyer Bedford County can protect your rights and often achieve a better outcome than representing yourself.
What is the difference between trespassing and unlawful entry?
In Virginia, “unlawful entry” is not a separate statute; it describes the act underlying a trespassing charge under Va. Code § 18.2-119. A lawyer will defend against the allegation that your entry or remaining on the property was without authority.
How long does a trespassing case take in Bedford County?
A misdemeanor trespassing case in Bedford County General District Court typically takes 4 to 8 weeks from arraignment to trial. Complex cases or those appealed to Circuit Court will take longer.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also assists with DUI defense in Bedford County and general criminal defense. For a broader view of our services, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also help clients in neighboring areas like Shenandoah County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.