Trespass Defense Lawyer Chesterfield County — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Chesterfield 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. provides a strong defense for these charges. Our trespass defense lawyer Chesterfield County team has handled cases at the Chesterfield County General District Court. We work to protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Trespassing Law
In Virginia, trespassing is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-119. The law prohibits entering or remaining on the property of another without authority after being forbidden to do so, either orally or in writing. This includes dwellings, buildings, and land. A related statute, Va. Code § 18.2-121, addresses trespassing on cemetery or church property. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses deep knowledge of these statutes to build defenses.
Court Process and Defense Strategy
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trespassing trials. Prosecutors must prove you entered or remained on property without authority after being told not to. A common defense is lack of proper notice or a claim of right to be present. The court at 9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832 serves Chesterfield County.
- Initial Consultation: Contact our trespass defense lawyer Chesterfield County team immediately after being charged.
- Case Review: We obtain police reports and witness statements to analyze the prosecution’s evidence.
- Defense Development: We identify weaknesses, such as improper notice or mistaken identity.
- Court Representation: We represent you at all hearings in Chesterfield County General District Court.
- Resolution: We negotiate for dismissal, reduction, or a favorable plea agreement.
Penalties for Trespassing in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, trespassing is typically 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 |
| Trespass on Cemetery/Church (Va. Code § 18.2-121) | Class 3 Misdemeanor | None | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented record of handling criminal cases in Chesterfield County. Our approach is based on thorough preparation and understanding local court procedures.
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
Case Results
Our firm has achieved favorable outcomes in various criminal matters. For example, we have secured dismissals for charges like “Purchase/Possess Alcohol” in Chesterfield General District Court. In another case in Fairfax County, a theft charge was amended to a lesser trespassing offense. 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.
Trespass Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesterfield County. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, and Route 10. We represent individuals in neighborhoods like Midlothian, Chester, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. If you need a trespassing charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County, contact us for a consultation.
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
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for trespassing in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes, trespassing is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The exact penalty depends on the specific circumstances and your prior record.
Can a trespassing charge be dismissed in Chesterfield County?
It depends. A criminal trespass dismissed lawyer Chesterfield County can seek dismissal by challenging the evidence, such as whether proper notice was given or if you had a right to be on the property. Successful completion of a first offender program may also lead to dismissal.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor creates a permanent criminal record. A trespass defense lawyer Chesterfield County can protect your rights, challenge the charge, and work to avoid jail time and fines.
What is the difference between criminal trespass and simple trespass?
In Virginia, “criminal trespass” under § 18.2-119 requires being forbidden from the property, either orally or in writing. Simple trespass may involve entering property without permission but without prior warning, and may be treated differently.
How long does a trespassing case take in Chesterfield County?
A misdemeanor trespassing case in Chesterfield County General District Court typically takes 4 to 8 weeks from arraignment to trial. Timelines can vary based on court scheduling and case complexity.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist with related issues like DUI charges in Chesterfield County. For defense in a neighboring area, consider our Henrico County criminal defense lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.