Trespass Defense Lawyer Chesterfield County — What Are Your Options?
A trespassing charge in Chesterfield 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. provides a strong defense for clients at Chesterfield County General District Court. Our trespass defense lawyer Chesterfield County team has documented results in the area. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Trespassing Law
Trespassing in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-119. The law prohibits entering or remaining on the property of another, including lands, buildings, or vehicles, after having been forbidden to do so, either orally or in writing, by the owner, lessee, custodian, or other authorized person. A related statute, Va. Code § 18.2-121, covers trespassing on cemetery or church property. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this statutory knowledge to build case-specific defenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Va. Code § 18.2-119 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available through the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Trespassing Charge
In Chesterfield County, a trespassing charge is prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Chesterfield County General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials. A key local procedural fact is that first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available, where successful completion can result in dismissal. For a trespassing charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County, understanding this local option is critical.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a trespassing violation.
- Attend your arraignment at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road) to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review the Commonwealth’s evidence, including any written or verbal warnings given.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a possible reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Prepare for and present your defense at a bench trial if no agreement is reached.
- If convicted, seek an appeal to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, a trespassing conviction as a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a permanent criminal record.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record; possible impact on employment, housing, and professional licenses. |
| Trespass on Cemetery/Church (Va. Code § 18.2-121) | Class 3 Misdemeanor | None | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record; potential community service. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Chesterfield County Cases
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 informed by direct knowledge of local court procedures and prosecutor tendencies. For instance, in a prior case, our work led to a criminal trespass dismissed lawyer Chesterfield County result for a client. We focus on the specific facts of each case to seek the best possible resolution.
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 Chesterfield County. In one case, a charge of “Purchase/Possess Alcohol” was dismissed at Chesterfield General District Court. In another matter, a retail theft charge in a different jurisdiction was amended to a trespassing offense. These results demonstrate our active approach to defense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Trespass Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 10. We are a trespass defense lawyer near Midlothian, Chester, and the Colonial Heights area. We serve the communities of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Trespassing is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. If your trespassing charge is dismissed, you may petition for expungement in Chesterfield County Circuit Court. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a trespassing charge in Chesterfield County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor trespassing charge carries a potential jail sentence and creates a permanent criminal record. A trespassing charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County can negotiate for dismissal, reduction, or diversion programs that you may not access on your own.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesterfield County?
Chesterfield County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the GDC. A trespassing case would begin and likely be resolved in the GDC.
What is a common defense to a trespassing charge?
Common defenses include lack of proper notice (no forbidden order was given), consent to be on the property, mistaken identity, or that the property was open to the public. An attorney can evaluate if the prosecution can prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.