Trespass Defense Lawyer Fredericksburg — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Fredericksburg 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. provides a strong defense for clients at the Fredericksburg General District Court. Our trespass defense lawyer Fredericksburg team has documented results in reducing or dismissing charges. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fredericksburg General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Trespassing Law
Trespassing in Virginia is defined as entering or remaining on the property of another without authority after having been forbidden to do so. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-119. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment and housing. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, uses its experience to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and protect your rights.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-119 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Fredericksburg General District Court website.
Defending a Trespassing Charge in Fredericksburg
In Fredericksburg, prosecutors must prove you were on the property without authority and after being told not to be there. A common defense is lack of proper notice. If no signs were posted or you were not personally told to leave, the charge may be weak. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fredericksburg handles these cases at the court on Princess Anne Street.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a trespassing charge.
- Attend your arraignment at Fredericksburg General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review the evidence, including any witness statements or police reports.
- We may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the charge before trial.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for trial.
- If convicted, seek an appeal to the Fredericksburg Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Virginia
In Fredericksburg, trespassing is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing (§ 18.2-119) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, possible impact on employment/ housing |
| Trespass on School Property (§ 18.2-128) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Enhanced penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a record of firm-wide 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach is based on a deep understanding of local court procedures and a commitment to client advocacy.
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 attorneys have successfully defended clients against trespassing and related charges. In past cases, we have secured amendments where a charge of “Enter Building to Commit Assault & Battery” was reduced to trespassing. Another case saw a petit larceny charge amended to trespassing after forbidden.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our trespassing charge defense lawyer Fredericksburg team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor and firm founder—works to achieve the best possible result in each case.
Contact Our Fredericksburg Trespass Defense Lawyer
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fredericksburg courts. We are accessible via I-95 and Route 1. We are a trespass defense lawyer near Fredericksburg Historic Downtown and the University of Mary Washington.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for trespassing in Fredericksburg, Virginia?
Trespassing is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The exact penalty depends on the circumstances and your prior record.
Can a trespassing charge be dismissed in Fredericksburg?
Yes. A trespassing charge dismissed lawyer Fredericksburg can seek dismissal if the prosecution lacks evidence, such as proof you were forbidden from the property or if your constitutional rights were violated during the arrest.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing charge?
It depends. While you can represent yourself, a conviction carries jail time and a permanent record. An attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate for a better outcome, or take the case to trial, which significantly improves your chances.
What is the difference between criminal trespass and trespass after forbidden?
In Virginia, “trespass after forbidden” under § 18.2-119 is the standard criminal charge. Other statutes cover specific situations, like trespass on school grounds. The elements and defenses are similar, requiring proof you were on property without authority.
How long does a trespassing case take in Fredericksburg?
A misdemeanor trespassing case in Fredericksburg General District Court typically takes 4 to 8 weeks from arraignment to trial. Complex cases or those appealed to Circuit Court can take several months.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub. We also assist clients in Fairfax County and with related issues like DUI defense in Fredericksburg.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.