Trespassing Lawyer New Kent County, VA
A trespassing charge in New Kent County, Virginia, is a criminal matter prosecuted in the New Kent County General District Court. Even a misdemeanor conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-119 can result in jail time, a fine, and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals facing trespassing allegations throughout the county, from the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring extensive criminal-defense experience to every case. Contact our firm at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation about your situation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Criminal Trespassing Means in New Kent County
Trespass after being forbidden is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-119, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-119. Virginia Legislative Information System
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
Under Virginia law, a person is guilty of trespass if they go onto or remain upon another’s land or building after having been told to leave—either orally, in writing, or by posted signs. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these offenses. Cases are heard in the General District Court, which handles all misdemeanor trials. Conviction carries the potential for incarceration, a fine, and a lasting criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
New Kent County lies within the Ninth Judicial District and is served by the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The court is part of a community anchored by I‑64 between Richmond and Williamsburg. While the legal process can feel unfamiliar, several options may be available for those with no prior record—including deferred disposition. Expungement of arrest records is also possible for charges that are dismissed or resolved through nolle prosequi.
New Kent County General District Court is currently presided over by Hon. Wade A. Bowie. Court hours: Mon-Fri 8:00AM-4:00PM. Counsel appearing on criminal matters should plan filings accordingly.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Trespassing Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. takes a thorough, fact-driven approach to every trespassing matter. The legal team begins by examining the specific circumstances surrounding the charge—whether the alleged trespass arose from a property dispute, a misunderstanding about permission to enter, or another scenario. Early involvement often allows counsel to communicate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office to explore alternatives such as a deferred disposition or a negotiated resolution that avoids a permanent conviction.
If trial is necessary, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are prepared to challenge the prosecution’s case in New Kent County General District Court. Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds its trespassing cases. His Of Counsel team includes an attorney who served as a Virginia State Trooper, offering firsthand insight into law enforcement procedures and investigatory practices. This combined perspective helps identify weaknesses in the evidence and assert any available defenses—such as lack of proper notice to leave or ambiguity in posted signage. Throughout the process, the firm keeps clients informed of their options and the potential consequences of each decision.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has concentrated his practice on criminal defense since 1997. He is a former prosecutor who now brings that inside knowledge to representing individuals charged in Virginia courts. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Together with his Of Counsel—attorneys engaged through Excella who bring decades of law enforcement and litigation experience—he works to achieve favorable outcomes for clients facing trespassing and other criminal allegations. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for trespassing in New Kent County, Virginia?
Trespassing in New Kent County is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The charge arises under Va. Code § 18.2-119, which makes it unlawful to enter or remain on property after being told to leave. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and background checks. The case is heard in the New Kent County General District Court.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against trespassing charges?
Defense strategies may include challenging whether proper notice was given, examining the legality of the initial encounter, and negotiating with the prosecutor. An experienced defense attorney evaluates the specific facts—such as whether a sign was clearly posted or whether the accused had a legitimate reason to be on the premises—to build the strong $1 under Va. Code § 18.2-119.
What should I do if I am facing trespassing charges in Virginia?
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately and avoid discussing the case with anyone else. Preserve any relevant documents, photographs, or witness information. Prompt legal advice is important because deadlines to request discovery and file motions begin running as soon as a charge is filed in New Kent County General District Court.
Can trespassing charges be expunged in New Kent County?
Virginia allows expungement of trespassing charges that result in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. A person whose charge did not lead to a conviction may petition the circuit court to remove the arrest record from public access. An attorney can advise whether your specific outcome qualifies for expungement relief.
Do I need a lawyer for a trespassing charge in New Kent County?
While you have the right to represent yourself, a trespassing conviction can have long-term consequences that a lawyer helps you navigate. A Class 1 misdemeanor is a criminal offense; any jail time, fine, and the record itself can affect future opportunities. An attorney familiar with the New Kent County General District Court can explain your options, evaluate the evidence, and work toward the trusted resolution under the circumstances.
Additional criminal defense resources: Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer · Prince William County criminal defense lawyer · Manassas criminal defense lawyer · Richmond criminal defense lawyer
Virginia official resources: Virginia Code (Legislative Information System) · Virginia Judicial System
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.