Criminal Trespassing in Olympia

Most people understand that trespassing means going or being someplace where you are not allowed to be. Sometimes the charges will arise out of situations where there was a misunderstanding and sometimes lots of alcohol was involved… Either way, it is important to take the charge seriously because your case might be a lot more complicated than what you imagine.

A criminal trespass charge is broken down into two different degrees which indicate the seriousness of the offense. The more serious offense is criminal trespass 1° which means you knowingly entered or remained unlawfully in a building. This charge is a gross misdemeanor which means the maximum penalty is 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. A common example for this charge is being thrown out of a bar and being told not to return but then you actually go back.

Slightly less serious is criminal trespass 2°. This charge is a misdemeanor which means the maximum penalty is 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. You are charged with this when you knowingly enter or remain unlawfully on someone’s property – but the property is not a building.

If you are facing a criminal trespass charge, do not hesitate to give us a call. We are more than happy to discuss with you your situation and help explain to you the process.