Trespassing Lawyer Greene County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A trespassing charge in Greene 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 trespass charges in Greene County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Trespassing Law and Defenses
Trespassing in Virginia is defined as entering or remaining on the property of another without authority after having been forbidden to do so, either orally or in writing, or after being told to leave. The core statute is Va. Code § 18.2-119. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Defenses a trespass charge defense lawyer Greene County may use include lack of proper notice, mistake of fact, consent from a person with apparent authority, or challenging whether the property was clearly marked as private.
Local Court Process for Trespassing Charges
All trespassing cases in Greene County begin at the Greene County General District Court at 85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. An unlawful entry defense lawyer Greene County familiar with local procedures can handle the process effectively.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if legal deficiencies exist.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer may negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction to a lesser offense or a dismissal.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, a bench trial will be held before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to the Greene County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Trespassing in Greene County
In Greene County, trespassing is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trespassing (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 Greene County Trespass Defense Team
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a trespass charge can stem from a misunderstanding, and we work diligently to protect your record and future.
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 approach focuses on achieving the best possible outcome. For example, our attorneys have successfully had charges like concealment amended to trespassing in other Virginia jurisdictions, demonstrating our strategic approach to case resolution. In Greene County, we apply focused defense strategies case-specific to the local court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Trespassing Lawyer Near Greene County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Greene County and the surrounding communities of Stanardsville and Ruckersville. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33. If you need a trespassing lawyer near Greene County, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation. Meetings are held by appointment only at our office.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Trespassing Charges in Greene County
Is trespassing a felony in Virginia?
No. Simple trespassing under Va. Code § 18.2-119 is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, certain aggravated forms, like trespassing while armed, can be charged as felonies.
Can a trespassing charge be dropped in Greene County?
It depends. The Commonwealth’s Attorney may drop the charge if the evidence is weak, if you had an honest mistake, or if the property owner no longer wishes to prosecute. A trespass charge defense lawyer Greene County can negotiate for a dismissal or nolle prosequi.
What is the difference between trespassing and unlawful entry?
In Virginia, “unlawful entry” is often used interchangeably with trespassing. Both refer to entering or remaining on property without authority. A skilled unlawful entry defense lawyer Greene County will examine whether you received proper legal notice to leave.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time trespassing charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor can result in jail time and a permanent record that affects employment and housing. A lawyer can seek alternative resolutions like dismissal or a reduction to a non-criminal violation.
How can a trespassing lawyer Greene County help me?
A lawyer will review the evidence for weaknesses, such as lack of proper posted signs or verbal warning. They can negotiate with the prosecutor, represent you at trial, and protect your rights throughout the process, aiming to avoid a conviction.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing a trespassing charge, you may also want to learn about your options from a Greene County criminal defense lawyer. For charges stemming from a domestic situation, a Greene County family law attorney may provide relevant counsel. Explore more about criminal defense in Virginia.
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.