Criminal Trespassing in Seattle
Essentially, trespassing is when you are someplace where you are not supposed to be. While this might not sound like such a big deal, when you are facing potential fines, jail, no contact orders, and probation, it can suddenly feel like a big deal. That is why it is important to contact an attorney to help you through this situation. Even a criminal conviction for criminal trespass could potentially impact your ability to get a job in the future.
Criminal trespassing is broken up into two types. Criminal trespass 1° is when you knowingly enter or remain in a building without permission. This charge is a gross misdemeanor, which means the maximum penalty is 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. A typical example is when an individual was ordered to leave a bar and not return but then either refused to leave or returned.
The second type of criminal trespass is criminal trespass 2°, which is when you knowingly enter or remain on land without permission. This charge is a misdemeanor, which comes with a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Examples include going onto government land under freeways behind fences or non-building parking lots with no trespassing notices.
If you have questions about a criminal trespass charge you are potentially facing, do not hesitate to give our office a call. We will be more than happy to discuss your situation and let you know how our knowledgeable, skilled Seattle, WA criminal defense lawyers can help you achieve the best outcome possible in your case.